In a dramatic moment on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives, Del. Stacey Plaskett from the U.S. Virgin Islands interrupted the vote for House Speaker to protest the lack of voting rights for delegates from non-state territories. Plaskett’s words, “This body and this nation has a territories and a colonies problem,” resonated through the chamber, highlighting a contentious issue regarding representation in Congress.
The incident unfolded during the election of Speaker Mike Johnson (R., La.), where Plaskett rose to question why she and other delegates representing over 4 million Americans from territories like American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands, were not allowed to participate. She emphasized the significant presence of veterans in these territories, stating, “Mr. Speaker, collectively, the largest per capita of veterans in this country.”
However, the response from the House was firm, rooted in the constitutional framework that only representatives from states can vote in House proceedings. Article I, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution explicitly limits voting rights to members chosen by the people of “the several states.” The presiding member responded to Plaskett’s query with, “Does the gentlelady have a problem?” to which Plaskett confirmed her discontent.
Plaskett’s microphone was cut off mid-speech as she declared the need for change, stating, “This body and this nation has a territory and a colonies problem. What was supposed to be temporary has now, effectively, become permanent. We must do something about this.” Despite her mic being silenced, she asserted, “But I have a voice!” receiving a standing ovation from Democrats.
The reaction from the media and some political figures has been mixed. Critics argue that Plaskett’s demand for voting rights directly contravenes the U.S. Constitution without an amendment. This perspective is supported by legal scholars like Jonathan Turley, who has previously argued against similar expansions of voting rights for non-state delegates, citing constitutional violations.
The debate isn’t just about the current House Speaker election but touches on broader issues of representation, statehood, and the interpretation of constitutional rights. Plaskett’s call for voting rights for all territories would fundamentally alter the structure of the House, potentially allowing for a fluid definition of representation that could be adjusted based on political expediency.
The Virgin Islands, while having a significant veteran population and a cherished place in the U.S., remains a territory, not a state. For territories to gain voting rights in the House, a constitutional amendment or a change in territorial status to statehood would be necessary, which would require a public referendum and congressional approval.
This event underscores a persistent tension between the desire for equal representation for all U.S. citizens and the strict interpretations of the Constitution that limit such rights to state residents. As Plaskett and her supporters push for recognition, the broader conversation about what it means to be a part of the U.S. political system continues to evolve, facing both legal and political hurdles.
