So the votes have been tallied and the 2012 election didn't really seem to clarify much in regards to officially making Puerto Rico the United States' 51st state. Will San Juan become the next state capital in our union or will the area remain as a commonwealth of the U.S.? While this question is difficult to consider for those of us living in an established state, it seems to be even more challenging for those living on the island to make a conclusive decision.

Puerto Ricans have supported U.S. statehood in a vote that jubilant members of the pro-statehood party say is the strongest sign yet that the Caribbean island territory is on the road to losing its second-class status.

But Tuesday's vote comes with an asterisk and an imposing political reality: The island remains bitterly divided over its relationship to the United States and many question the validity of this week's referendum.

Nearly a half million voters chose to leave a portion of the ballot blank. And voters also ousted the pro-statehood governor, eliminating one of the main advocates for a cause that would need the approval of the U.S. Congress.

Read More on mercurynews.com