TR: D.C. Autonomy: Justice for the District!

How would you feel if the very laws affecting your daily life – your schools, your police force, your roads – were decided not by your elected representatives, but by some distant bureaucrat in Washington? Sounds like a story from some oppressed colony, doesn’t it? But it is the lived reality for over 700,000 patriotic Americans residing in the District of Columbia, the very heart of our Republic. And mark my words, this isn't just a D.C. problem; it’s an American problem. It goes to the very core of what we believe about self-governance and the fundamental right of representation. The ongoing struggle between the Trump administration and the duly elected officials of Washington D.C. is a stark reminder that this right is constantly under threat, and that vigilance is the price of liberty.

The Real Stakes: Liberty vs. Centralized Control

What’s truly at stake here is nothing less than the principle of self-determination. The Trump administration's grasping for further control over D.C., as I understand it, echoes the very abuses King George III attempted to inflict upon the American colonies. We fought a revolution to break free from such tyranny, and we cannot now allow it to creep back in through the backdoor of political maneuvering. This isn't about efficiency, as some might argue. This is about power, pure and simple. It's about a central authority attempting to override the will of the people closest to the issues. It's a blatant disregard for the principle that those who are governed should have a say in their own governance.

What message are we sending to the world when we preach democracy abroad while denying it to citizens at home? Are we to become hypocrites, speaking of freedom while stifling the voices of our own people? The very foundation of our nation rests on the belief that government derives its just powers from the consent of the governed. Denying D.C. full autonomy is a betrayal of that sacred trust.

Roosevelt's Position: A Square Deal for D.C.

My position is clear, and has always been clear: D.C. deserves full autonomy. A #SquareDeal2028 means ensuring that every American, regardless of their zip code, has a voice in their government. This is not a partisan issue; this is a matter of fundamental fairness. It is a question of whether we truly believe in the principles upon which this nation was founded.

We cannot stand idly by while the fundamental rights of American citizens are trampled upon. It is time to fight for justice for the District of Columbia. This means fighting for the right of D.C. residents to elect their own representatives with full voting power in Congress. It means granting the District complete control over its own affairs, free from the undue influence of the federal government.

The Square Deal Platform: Policy Solutions for D.C. Autonomy

The Square Deal isn’t just a slogan; it’s a commitment to action. Here are some concrete steps we will take to ensure justice for D.C.:

• Statehood for D.C.: This is the ultimate solution. We will fight for D.C. to become the 51st state, granting its residents full representation in Congress and complete control over their own destiny. I will throw the full weight of the presidency behind this effort, rallying support from across the nation.
• Home Rule Enhancement: Until statehood is achieved, we will expand D.C.’s home rule powers. This includes granting the District greater control over its budget, its judicial system, and its legislative agenda. We will work with Congress to pass legislation that empowers D.C. to govern itself effectively.
• Ending Federal Interference: The federal government's meddling in D.C.'s local affairs must end. We will review all federal laws and regulations that unduly restrict D.C.’s autonomy and work to repeal or amend them. We will ensure that D.C. residents are treated with the same respect and dignity as citizens of any other state.
• Economic Empowerment: D.C.’s economy is crucial to the nation's. We will invest in D.C.'s infrastructure, its schools, and its businesses. We will promote economic opportunity for all D.C. residents, regardless of their background.

These are not just promises; they are commitments. The Square Deal is a pledge to fight for fairness, equality, and justice for all Americans, including those who call the District of Columbia home.

A Call to Action: Stand Up for D.C.!

The time for talk is over. The time for action is now. We must stand up and demand that the residents of D.C. be treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.

Here’s what you can do:

• Contact your elected officials: Let your representatives in Congress know that you support statehood for D.C. and expanded home rule powers. Make your voice heard!
• Support organizations working for D.C. autonomy: There are many dedicated groups working to achieve justice for the District. Support their efforts through donations, volunteering, and advocacy.
• Spread the word: Talk to your friends, family, and neighbors about the importance of D.C. autonomy. Share this article on social media and help educate others about this critical issue.

Let us work together to create a nation where every American has a voice, and where the principles of self-governance are upheld in every corner of our land, from the smallest town to the nation’s capital. Let us show the world that America truly stands for liberty and justice for all!