Alex Cora, the Red Sox manager, stated that he did not attend the White House visit to demonstrate his support for Puerto Rico.

Alex Cora, the Boston Red Sox manager, revealed the reason behind his decision to skip a visit to the Trump White House following their 2018 World Series victory.

In an interview on "The Mayor's Office" podcast on Wednesday, Cora confessed that he missed meeting President Trump because he prioritized his homeland, Puerto Rico. During the Red Sox's visit to the White House in May 2019, Puerto Rico was still recovering from the devastation caused by Hurricane Maria in 2017, and Cora was dissatisfied with the federal government's response.

"Cora stated that she felt uncomfortable celebrating at the White House during her visit, despite not regretting it. She believes she should have been clearer about her feelings, and it was during the time of President Trump. She explained that she had nothing against the President at that moment but felt uneasy about celebrating while Puerto Ricans were still suffering."

Cora admits that she would have felt uncomfortable celebrating at the White House due to the current state of her country.

"He continued, "We are part of the United States. Although the funding they provide is incredible, there was still work to be done. I felt uncomfortable celebrating at the White House while many people were suffering. People perceived it as a political event. However, my focus is on sports and my family. I regret not being clear about my priorities.""

In May 2019, Cora stated that while the U.S. government has accomplished some positive actions, there is still much progress to be made.

Cora stated that she would prefer not to attend the White House visit and that it would be best if everyone remained consistent with their actions.

In September 2018, Trump declared his response to the hurricane a success while speaking at the Oval Office.

"Trump stated that Puerto Rico was an unsung success, with FEMA, law enforcement, and the governor working together to achieve tremendous results."

In September 2017, Hurricanes Irma and Maria hit the island, with the latter's death toll increasing from 64 to 2,975 in August 2018.

An independent investigation ordered by the local government led to the updated number, which Puerto Rico Gov. Ricardo Rossello then announced.

The Trump administration's actions in Puerto Rico were met with widespread criticism. However, after visiting the island in September 2017, the president stated that Puerto Ricans were fortunate that the storm did not cause as much destruction as Hurricane Katrina did along the Gulf Coast in 2005.

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