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51 for 51 Affirms the Constitutionality of D.C. Statehood Legislation

Washington, D.C. — Today, in response to a Washington Post story citing comments on the constitutionality of D.C. statehood legislation, 51 for 51 campaign director Stasha Rhodes issued the following statement:

“Adding states through legislation is how it’s been done in the United States for 200 years. It is how West Virginia was admitted in 1863, how Hawaii was admitted in 1959, and how DC will be admitted in 2021. No member of the Senate should deny voting rights to 700,000 mostly Black and Brown Washingtonians based on a flimsy understanding of the Constitution and American history. A DC statehood law is clearly consistent with the Constitution and the 23rd Amendment.”

To speak with a representative of 51 for 51, please contact press@51for51.org 

Website: https://www.51for51.org/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/51for51

 

About 51 for 51:

51 for 51 is a coalition of D.C.-based and national groups committed to equal representation for the over 700,000 D.C. residents who remain locked out of our democracy. The coalition of 20 progressive groups believe American citizens living in the District deserve a voice in Congress and control over their own local laws. Already, President Biden, Vice President Harris, and Senators Warren, Markey, Gillibrand and Hickenlooper have endorsed 51 for 51’s proposed path to statehood. 

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