DC Statehood? Not Quite Yet...

I've always loved that DC's license plate is a political statement
It appears that Washington, DC is on its way to its first official seat in Congress. Seriously.

From the Hill:

Senior lawmakers who oppose the D.C. Voting Rights Act say they know of no legal challenges to the bill, which is expected to pass the Senate next week.

The bill, which is scheduled to begin debate in the Senate on Feb. 23 , would add a vote in the House for both Washington D.C. and Utah.

In recent years the measure failed to receive the necessary support, but it is thought to have enough votes to defeat a Republican-led filibuster in the Senate with a larger Democratic majority in this Congress.

It seems there are no challenges because Utah is getting one, too.

Fun fact: they can't add a Senator for DC because that would make it a state. And, well, I really actually want to see a state added in my lifetime, I think. But 51 is such an inconvenient number, isn't it?

Congressional Valentine

The Washington Blade does an interesting piece on the relationships of two of Congress's openly gay politicians:

It’s not easy being the valentine of a gay member of Congress.

Separated by great distances and long working hours, these patient partners sometimes find themselves hundreds of miles apart on special occasions and holidays. In rare instances, they’re subjected to different treatment than the spouses of straight lawmakers.

Despite the obstacles, two gay members of Congress have seen their relationships prosper and grow for years.

It's kind of a "monkey in a cage" thing -- look at the weirdos!!! they're kinda like us too! -- but it's still sweet, though I request a check on the sanity of anyone who refers to Barney Frank as "hot."

Was he, once? Meh, not really:

GAY STUFF: Don't Ask, Don't Tell Hearings...

"In case you can't remember what the argument against gays in the military sounds like..."



A) Good on you, John Stewart.

B) Well done, Congressional members of the House Armed Services Committee.

(via Joe.My.God.)