Republicans Warn Washington to Think Twice About Legalizing Marijuana - Article Example

Republicans Warn Washington to Think Twice About Legalizing Marijuana al affiliation option) The report indicates that the Congress is sharpening its claws in preparation for another fight over the ability of DC to govern itself. Though enough signatures exist to legalize marijuana in the district, it is obvious that a blockage is in the looming even as the residents continue to celebrate the new law. The Constitution gives the Congress the powers to exercise exclusive legislation in any case whatsoever over DC.

The powers came into effect in 1973 when Congress enacted the Home Rule Act that gave the District the capacity to elect a city council headed by a mayor, giving the city some level of sovereignty (Sultan, 2002). Nevertheless, various limitations appear in the Act, an instance that makes Congress retain substantial jurisdiction over the district. In addition, the Rule provides that Congress can enact laws for the District on any issue. Experts claim that the limitations in the enactment are meant to protect the capital of the federal government.

However, I strongly find these encroachments rather annoying.Over the years, various attempts have been made to restrain the actions of Districts on issues pertaining to abortion and medical marijuana. However, it emerges that the interferences are platforms for politicians to make political statements meant to resonate with voters in their congressional districts. As such, the action fails to consider the fact that the city has its needs. The argument in question is not just the legalization of the drug per se; instead, it is about the power of non-resident congressional representatives of the District reversing decisions reached by the voters.

I believe that the Capital is a unique region that plays a vital role in the functions of the government, an aspect that makes congressional oversight important. Nonetheless, it is imperative that congressional representatives should use the provided oversight powers appropriately and detest from overruling the district’s electorate decisions for individual political gain.ReferencesSultan, S. (2002). Greater Washington Central Labor Council: A Dilution of Home Rule Act Limitations. Cath. UL Rev.

, 32, 1049.