As a non-voting representative to the US Senate, I lobby the US Senate and the US House of Representatives on behalf of the citizens of DC in their attempt to gain full Federal representation, self-determination, and eventually admittance to the union as the nation’s 51st state. I also work closely with our non-voting Congressional Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, the Mayor and the DC Council members to advance the interest of local residents on Federal issues.

The District of Columbia has been my home now for over 30 years. I care deeply about the lack of voting representation for the nearly 600,000 citizens of the District, and have dedicated 18 years to the cause. I want to finish the job I started.

For the first time since 1993, we have statehood bills in both the Senate and House of Representatives. This is our best opportunity to push for full statehood. During my time in this position, I have worked tirelessly to build relationships with elected representatives and their staff.

Never has this been more needed than last year, during the government "shut-down".  When other DC leaders were unable to reach key officials, I was able to talk directly with Senators and to key members of the Senate Leadership, and worked with them to ensure that the impact on the District was kept to a minimum.  The length of time that I have invested in these relationships meant that I had access where others did not.

The people of the District of Columbia deserve equal representation. I have worked tirelessly to educate people both in the District and around the Nation and even the world about the disenfranchisement of the District of Columbia.

I am honored that our President, Barack Obama said that I have "always been a strong advocate for the rights of DC voters", and I have been proud to work with him, and other voting Senator's and U.S. Representatives to advance the cause of DC's full and equal rights.