Why would someone think the US has 52 states?

Answer by  palaeologus (564)

There have been calls for statehood in the past for Puerto Rico and for the District of Columbia (which has Electoral College votes just like a state), and both have delegates in Congress that do not vote. They are probably logical candidates to become state numbers 51 and 52.

Answer by  km8738 (1917)

Puerto Rico and Guam are still US Territories. They receive most of the benefits of being part of the United States while not being held to most of their Federal Policies. In addition, many people consider Washington DC to be a state of its own. In this case, people may think there are 53 states.