U.S. Virgin Islands Delegate Stacey Plaskett raised concerns about the nonvoting status of the Virgin Islands and other U.S. territories during a recent House session. Plaskett, a Democrat, questioned why delegates from the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and the District of Columbia were not allowed to participate in the House speaker vote, representing a combined population of approximately four million Americans.
Plaskett highlighted that these territories have a significant number of veterans per capita, emphasizing the need for their voices to be heard in the political process. However, the House clerk clarified that only representatives-elect are eligible to vote for the House speaker, as per the House Rules and Manual.
Plaskett's remarks sparked a divided reaction among lawmakers, with some Democrats applauding her stance on addressing the territories' lack of voting rights, while Republicans expressed dissent.
She asserted that the issue of territories being treated as colonies or having a 'colonies problem' is a longstanding concern that needs to be addressed. Plaskett emphasized the need for a resolution to what she described as a persistent problem that has not been adequately dealt with.
Despite facing opposition and interruptions during her speech, Plaskett continued to advocate for a change in the status quo, calling for action to rectify the situation. Her comments underscored the ongoing debate surrounding the representation and voting rights of U.S. territories in Congress.
Plaskett, who has served as a non-voting delegate to the U.S. Virgin Islands since 2015, has been a vocal advocate for addressing the disparities faced by territories in the legislative process. Her efforts to bring attention to this issue have reignited discussions on the need for greater inclusivity and representation for all Americans, regardless of their geographic location.
