Rep. Andy Ogles, R-Tenn., on Tuesday proposed an amendment to the federal budget aimed at ending Washington, D.C.’s statehood movement.
As part of the proposal, Ogles called for banning funding for the New Columbia Statehood Commission, which coordinates the District of Columbia’s efforts to become the 51st state, and forbidding the use of funds to conduct U.S. Senate elections for the District of Columbia.
The move has drawn backlash from Rep. Oye Owolewa, who represents the district, who called the proposal a tactic to “limit the autonomy of representation for the people of Washington, D.C.”
“This amendment is just another attempt to silence Washington, D.C., in its quest for equality and fairness,” Oworewa said.
Oworewa has served as Washington, D.C.’s shadow representative since 2021. Voters in the District elect one shadow senator and two shadow representatives, but these positions are recognized only in the District of Columbia and are not sworn in or seated in Congress.
U.S. Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D) of Washington, D.C., can take an oath and appear and vote in committees, introduce bills, and participate in legislative debate, but cannot vote on bills being considered on the full House floor.
Congress established the District as the nation’s capital in 1790, and the Constitution declares it to be under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Congress. But supporters of D.C. statehood argue that while the District functions as a state, it also performs the functions of a city and a county.
DC runs its own school system, administers its own Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Medicaid programs, and receives federal block grant funding normally given to states. DC residents, like residents of all 50 states, pay taxes, vote and serve on juries.
“Mr. Ogulu’s amendment proves that the forces opposed to democracy are aware of our efforts,” Oworewa said. “As a representative of Washington, DC, I vow to fight back against these threats, expand my advocacy efforts, and take our noble cause to the nation. We in DC deserve to have our voices heard, our votes counted, and our rights protected. The only path forward for us is DC statehood.”
Ogles’ office did not immediately respond to The Hill’s request for comment.
