sparking concern about the future of the island’s fragile economy. Four of the five are Democrats. A White House official told The Associated Press on Tuesday that the board “has been run inefficiently and ineffectively by its governing members for far too long and it’s time to restore common sense leadership.” Those fired are board chairman Arthur Gonzalez, along with Cameron McKenzie, Betty Rosa, Juan Sabater and Luis Ubiñas. The board’s two remaining members – Andrew G. Biggs and John E. Nixon – are Republicans. The board confirmed in a brief statement that the five were terminated and noted that the board would continue to fulfil its mandate and work “in the interest of the people of Puerto Rico.”

Sylvette Santiago, a spokesperson for the board, did not immediately return a message seeking comment on whether the board members would fight the decision. Meanwhile, Rep Nydia Velázquez, a New York Democrat, criticized the dismissals though she acknowledged what she said were “serious and longstanding concerns” about actions the board has taken, including implementing austerity measures. “This sudden purge by Donald Trump is not about justice or reform,” she said in a statement. “It simply creates an opening to stack the Board with even more extreme, pro-bondholder appointees who will continue to put the needs of hedge funds over the Puerto Rican people.” (Jamaica Gleaner)