Nelson Cruz Santiago
Nelson Cruz Santiago (born August 12, 1975 in Ponce, Puerto Rico) is a Puerto Rican politician and a member of the Senate of Puerto Rico since 2017. He is affiliated to the New Progressive Party (PNP).
Nelson Cruz Santiago | |
|---|---|
| Member of the Puerto Rico Senate from the Ponce district | |
| In office January 2, 2017 – Present | |
| Personal details | |
| Born | August 12, 1975 Ponce, Puerto Rico |
| Political party | New Progressive Party |
| Profession | Politician, Senator |
Early years and studies
Born to Nelson Cruz Piña (RIP) and Bethzaida Santiago Hernández. He has an associate degree in police science from the Criminal Investigation College of the Puerto Rico Police, and a Bachelor of Science in Social sciences with a concentration in criminal justice of the Ana G. Méndez University System.
Professional career
In 1995, he began his career in public service as a shelter manager for the Emergency Management office of the Municipality of Peñuelas. Since 1996 has worked as a Puerto Rico Natural Resources Ranger Corps, attached to the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources.
Political career
Served as a member of the city council in Peñuelas, Puerto Rico since 2000 and was elected again in 2004. In 2012 ran for mayor of Peñuelas with no success. Was elected as senator to represent the District of Ponce in the 2016 elections. His most known bill is the Senate Project 1050, which simplifies the process of gaining a firearm licence.[1]