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There are 50 states in the Union. The number of stars on the US flag is always the same as the number of states. There are various territories, commonwealths and possessions that are under one degree or another of US control, but they are not states. Puerto Rico is an example. In several referenda over the years the people of Puerto Rico, US citizens, have considered the option of applying for statehood. They have opted for the commonwealth status. They are represented by a non-voting delegate to congress, and they cannot vote in presidential elections. They do not pay federal taxes, but they do pay social security and other taxes. Puerto Rico may opt one day to apply for statehood.

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13y ago

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