Senate Rejects Amendment to Cede D.C. to Maryland

By GottaLaff

Rejected:

The Senate today rejected an amendment to cede most of the District back to Maryland, a measure aimed at largely replacing a bill that would give the nation's capital its first seat ever in the House of Representatives.

The amendment was one of several offered so far that could dramatically change the legislation, or complicate its chances of becoming law. Majority Leader Harry M. Reid (Nev) hopes to bring the D.C. voting rights bill to a crucial vote tonight, but it is unclear whether the Senate will move that rapidly. [...]

“Sen. Benjamin L. Cardin (D-Md.) argued that the amendment tried to alter Maryland’s boundaries without even seeking the input of its political leadership.

As for Maryland’s inhabitants, “they believe residents of the District of Columbia should have a voting representative in the House of Representatives,” he said. “That’s what they want, and we agree with that.” He further suggested that the District should have two U.S. senators.

The measure failed by a 67-30 vote.”

Result: Amendment Rejected