01.25.07

Yesterday, the Congressional Democrats quietly restored a rule allowing non-state delegates limited voting rights in Congress. The non-states that have congressional representation are American Samoa, Guam, US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and *da da DUM* the District of Columbia. These representatives can now vote on amendments, but cannot vote on final legislation.

The restored rule was previously in effect from 1993-1995; the last time there was a Democratic majority in Congress. The Republican minority has called the change an unconsititutional power grab. Right. Giving representation to American citizens in Congress is unconstitutional.

And the so-called Patriot Act was a beacon of constitutionality.

I'm excited, because this is a small step towards recognition of DC's citizens' sovereignity.

Currently, DC residents are taxed, sent to war, and have to bear the burden of providing practical support for the US government and its guests. Every time there's a presidential movement, or a diplomatic motorcade, DC cops have to be taken from their beats and put into security detail. Yet they have no (voting) representation in Congress. (If you're interested in the DC statehood movement, check out this site.) Well, with yesterday's restoration, they now have some limited representation...and that's great.

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