The Case for DC Statehood

Bring up the idea of DC statehood and most people have a visceral reaction. DC Statehood? No way! Perhaps it has something to do the condescension many Americans have towards the inhabitants of the Federal City and the foibles of past elected officials (Marion Barry, anyone?). Although basic inability to elect competent leaders doesn't seem to an impediment for other states (Louisiana, anyone?).

John over at Average Gay Joe at least provides a substantive argument against making DC a state:

D.C. is the Federal City and the U.S. Government is entitled to hold more sway in its seat lest the State wherein it resided could have more influence in national politics than the others (see The Federalist No. 43).

My response is that this argument made sense 219 years ago when Madison wrote it but it no longer applies. In 1788 when Federalist No. 43 was written the states were sovereign and joined in a loose confederation with a weak central government. To win support for the new constitution meant soothing rival jealousies of the states. Creating an independent federal district not beholden to any single state made pragmatic political sense to gain support for the new national government. That no longer applies.

Nor does any danger that a state could gain supremacy over the federal government. Our national government and its dominance over the states is firmly established, by blood shed in the 1860s and by 150 years of precedent. Moreover, in the 18th century, given the lack of rapid communication or travel, geographic proximity could have provided an unfair advantage to those closest to the capitol. Modern communication and transportation remove those benefits.

Washington, DC has existed as a separate entity -- not part of a state -- since 1790. As a distinct geographical and political entity, it should be afford the right to apply for statehood if its inhabitants desire it, just as Puerto Rico should it wish to do so. Why should the people of Puerto Rico be given the opportunity to become a state and the people of DC not?

Another option is to pass a constitutional amendment that would give DC residents voting rights in Congress -- but that would create a special case, an exemption from existing constitutional law. It would give DC residents representation without the requirement for statehood. Why carve out that special right -- giving us the chance to become a state would seem to be the more conservative position.