PDP leader calls for repeal of the clique, political investment in government

PDP President Pablo José Hernández

By THE STAR STAFF

Popular Democratic Party President Pablo José Hernández marked the 74th anniversary of Puerto Rico’s Constitution this weekend with a pointed warning about what he considers the island’s most corrosive political threat: the erosion of public trust driven by corruption and the outsized influence of money in government.

Speaking before an audience in Cayey, he set aside the customary debate over the commonwealth’s legacy to focus instead on what he called “the corruption of the clique,” a term he used to describe a network of political and economic interests that, in his view, has turned public service into a vehicle for private gain. He argued that the problem extends beyond isolated legal violations and reflects a deeper moral decay within Puerto Rico’s institutions.

Hernández emphasized that this dynamic is not confined to any single political party. He criticized practices such as favoritism, conflicts of interest and “political investment,” referring to the ability of major donors and contractors to shape government decisions through financial contributions.

He also linked his concerns to Puerto Rico’s relationship with the federal government, noting that corruption scandals can undermine confidence among federal agencies overseeing billions of dollars in reconstruction and public program funds.

As part of his proposed reforms, Hernández called for stricter limits on anonymous and cash donations, tighter rules for contributions from government contractors and greater transparency regarding donors’ identities and professional ties.

The Washington Resident Commissioner drew a historical parallel to an era when vote-buying was common on the island, invoking the legacy of former Gov. Luis Muñoz Marín to argue that while the mechanisms of political influence have evolved, the need to safeguard democratic integrity remains. What once involved direct payments for votes, he said, has shifted into a system of dependency shaped by relationships among contractors, donors and public officials.

He rejected the notion that entrenched practices should continue simply because “that’s how it’s always been,” urging changes to the political rules of engagement.

Hernández also used the occasion to reinforce his role as a watchdog in both Washington and San Juan. He argued that exposing irregularities does not harm Puerto Rico’s image but instead demonstrates that there are officials committed to accountability.

He closed with an appeal to residents weary of recurring scandals, urging them to reclaim trust in democratic institutions. His final line captured the central theme of his message: “The people against the clique.”