Pro/Con: D.C.’s non-state status is taxation without representation
“No taxation without representation.”
The slogan that was instrumental to our country’s founding and that flashes across D.C. license plates could, in theory, never hold more truth. However, Republicans, who assert themselves as true patriots, are opposing D.C. statehood at every turn. Why would they not want to promote freedom based on one of the strongest tenets our country was founded upon? Granting statehood to D.C. would subsequently add two more-than-likely Democrats to the Senate. This is certain to kill the filibuster, or at least make it very difficult for Republicans to pass anything once they gain the majority (unless they win in 2022 by a landslide). Nevertheless, it is frustrating to continuously see politicians whine about the unfair changes that the political system would bring to them while not recognizing the unfairness everyday Americans face. It is, therefore, reasonable to question the constitutionality and ethics of mixing the nation's capital with a state.
According to HR 51, an area will be created known as the “Capital,” which will “include the principal Federal monuments, the White House, the Capitol Building, the United States Supreme Court Building and the Federal executive, legislative and judicial office buildings located adjacent to the 19 Mall and the Capitol Building.” This provision in the bill argues against any criticism that could be made regarding federalism and the separation between the federal and state governments. The federal government and state government will also retain the properties they own outside of the capital section.
Citizens of D.C. currently pay more in taxes than people in 22 other states, and more taxes per capita than anywhere else in the country. Their 700,000 residents make The District of Columbia's population higher than both Vermont and Wyoming. 11,000 Washingtonians actively serve in the military. Residents are able to and do serve on juries. Yet, the only federal representation D.C. has is a non-voting member of the House of Representatives? We cannot ask people to serve their country without granting them the full benefits of citizenship.
At a certain level, D.C. statehood also becomes a racial justice issue. 47% of the city's residents are African American, who face rampant voter suppression across the country as it is.
According to a 2016 referendum, 86% of D.C. residents wanted to gain access to statehood. They have earned it and then some. It is far past time to act to do the right thing, even if it's politically damaging. Republicans, if you fear your political future, restore your own party – don't deny nearly three-quarters of a million people the basic rights of citizenship.
