Staff Reports
Senator Joe Manchin from West Virginia has chosen to collaborate with Republicans to reverse a contentious law related to local crime in Washington D.C. The law in question, known as the Revised Criminal Conduct Code Act, has been criticized for being lenient towards criminal behavior, particularly in cases of violent crimes like homicide, robbery, and carjacking.
Car Theft is UP 1⃣1⃣1⃣% in Washington DC.
DC's answer: Give out steering wheel locks & implement a new pro-crime criminal code that @HouseGOP roundly opposed.
Our cities need to stop ceding ground to criminals. Why not actually enforce the law & implement real crime prevention? pic.twitter.com/jaxvUAZcPS
— Congressman Byron Donalds (@RepDonaldsPress) February 28, 2023
During an interview with CNN, Manchin firmly expressed his opposition to the law and confirmed that he plans to cast his vote to repeal it. He also acknowledged the concerns regarding the law’s potential to decrease the punishment for violent offenders, stating that he hasn’t been fully informed about it but based on his understanding, he would vote in favor of its rescindment. A representative from Manchin’s office verified to the DCNF that he will endorse the resolution.
Joe Manchin Will Vote To Overturn Controversial DC Crime Law https://t.co/fho5Gv947O
— US Burning (@UsBurning) February 28, 2023
Earlier this month, a resolution of disapproval was put forward by Republican Georgia Representative Andrew Clyde and Republican Tennessee Senator Bill Hagerty, and it was approved by the U.S. House. The District Clause of the Constitution (Article 1, Section 8, Clause 17) grants Congress the power to scrutinize all legislation related to Washington D.C., including the ability to modify or repeal local laws, and even impose new ones.
The Republicans are likely to secure the passage of the resolution with the backing of Manchin and the absence of Democratic Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman, who is currently dealing with clinical depression. This outcome marks a significant triumph for conservatives who have persistently maintained that Washington D.C.’s crime laws are excessively lax and fail to sufficiently safeguard citizens from violent offenders.
It is encouraging to see a Democratic Senator like Joe Manchin stand up for what is right and join forces with Republicans to overturn this dangerous law. It is a reminder that when it comes to protecting citizens from violent criminals, politics should not get in the way of doing what is right. It is time for Democrats and Republicans alike to come together and pass laws that will keep our communities safe and secure.
Source: The Daily Caller
