Fernando Bonilla

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Fernando J. Bonilla (born 1962?) is a Puerto Rican political figure, currently serving as Secretary of State of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. Bonilla also serves as the Director of the Puerto Rico Ports Authority.

As Secretary of State, Bonilla is constitutionally empowered to assume the seat of Governor of Puerto Rico in case that the incumbent is incapable to do so. After the federal indictment of incumbent Governor Aníbal Acevedo Vilá, the possibility exist that Acevedo might resign his position, thereby elevating Bonilla to the seat of Governor.

[edit] Early life and education

Bonilla received a Juris Doctor from the University of Puerto Rico School of Law and an LLM from Tulane University School of Law. He served as law clerk to Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of Puerto Rico Miriam Naveira form 1985-1987.

Bonilla worked primarly in the private sector, specializing in maritime law.

[edit] Political career

Bonilla was appointed Director of the Puerto Rico Ports Authority in early 2005 by Governor Aníbal Acevedo Vilá. After Marisara Pont was rejected by the House of Representatives of Puerto Rico for the post of Secretary of State, Governor Acevedo turned to Bonilla and nominated him in the summer of 2005 for the position. He was confirmed by both houses of the Legislative Assembly of Puerto Rico and effectively began serving in both posts.

The position of Secretary of State is largely a ceremonial position. However, the Constitution provides that whenever the Governor is unable to carry out his duties, dies, is impeached or resigns, the Secretary of State shall succeed him the post.

After the federal indictment of Governor Aníbal Acevedo Vilá on March 27, 2008, Bonilla might assume the governorship if Acevedo were to resign.