As Democrats continue to advance the cause of statehood for Washington, D.C., it is important to consider arguments in support of, and against, these efforts. Congressional Democrats list nine findings concerning statehood for Washington, D.C. in HR1 (Division A, Part 3- Miscellaneous Provisions, Title II, Subtitle C, Section 2201) Yes, it is as far-reaching a piece of legislation as its components would indicate. First among their findings is this statement: “the 705,000 District of Columbia residents deserve voting representation in Congress and local self-government, which only statehood can provide.” An introductory statement that consequential should be supported by data and deep analysis. It is not. Instead, HR1 offers eight additional findings are offered in support of the first- findings that are presented as if they are self-evident, and irrefutable. All nine findings revolve around a core grievance claim: that D.C. residents are victims of suppression because they are subject to…
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