Clarence Page tells us in his Nov. 8 column, ”Color us optimistic, Mr. Clinton,” that it is the right thing to grant statehood to the District of Columbia. He says it would offend no one but the most fervent of Republicans, who don`t count anyway. I wonder if he`s considered the wishes of millions of citizens in this country who may not be ”fervent” Republicans and who might object to this action.
If the next president does sign the statehood bill, he will besmirch the Democrats as the party that destroyed our national capital. What is really to be gained by making a few square miles of land the 51st state?
Aside from serious legal considerations, one might be facetious and ask how that 51st star would be fitted into the flag. As it is now, the smaller stars in the blue field look more like polka dots from a distance. And what if the Postal Service (already having issued stamps for the birds and flowers of 50 states) should decide to provide stamps for state insects? How would that 51st insect stamp fit on the sheet?
Save our national capital, Mr. Clinton. Veto statehood!
