Jason Chaffetz: “I want to be clear about my motives and intentions. I find it curious when other Members try to prescribe my feelings…”

“I want to be clear about my motives and intentions. I find it curious when other Members try to prescribe my feelings and my approach to this issue. It is my belief, and support of this legislation is based on the Constitution. It is that simple to me. Article I, section 8, clause 17, says: ``To exercise exclusive Legislation in all Cases whatsoever, over such District,'' and it continues on. The District of Columbia is more than just a local jurisdiction. It is more than just a local city. It is our Nation's Capital. I think what the founders were intending to do was to understand and allow participation for Members all over this country in the affairs of the city. That was the intention, and that is what is in the Constitution. Don't be confused or misled or allow anybody else to prescribe my motives and my motivation, my belief, in the District of Columbia because it is rooted, first and foremost, in the Constitution. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.”