Mike Gallagher: “A few comments. I mean, the fact that the House, in partisan fashion, has passed the D.C. statehood bill I think has no…”

“A few comments. I mean, the fact that the House, in partisan fashion, has passed the D.C. statehood bill I think has no bearing on this because, of course, according to the Constitution, there is another Chamber that would have to weigh in for a bill to become a law. Until such a time as that becomes a reality, this amendment makes no sense and puts that very big cart before the horse. As my colleague from Georgia so eloquently reminded us, we should be in the business of adhering to the Constitution, not seeking to create end-runs around it. Furthermore, the gentlewoman's earlier objection that we already have a process for a consultation, and, therefore, my objections aren't warranted, ignores the basic fact that with this amendment, we are setting a new precedent. As the gentleman from Georgia clearly laid out, we are lowering the bar below the level of Governor and effectively giving a mayor the authorities that a Governor has right now. That is not the same consultation process that exists at present. That is a new glitch in the matrix, one that should be avoided right now. Mr. Speaker, I maintain my strong opposition to this amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.”