In a remarkable display of historical acumen, Representative Jamie Raskin (D-MD) took to the House floor to correct a mistake made by his colleague, Representative Dan Bishop (R-NC).
During a debate on a bill introduced by Representative Byron Donalds (R-FL) aimed at altering criminal sentencing codes in Washington, D.C., Bishop erroneously claimed that Thomas Jefferson signed the Constitution.
Raskin, a former constitutional law professor, seized the opportunity to enlighten his fellow lawmakers and any students watching, clarifying that Jefferson was actually on a diplomatic mission during the Constitution’s signing and instead authored the Declaration of Independence.
GOP Congressman Mistakes Jefferson for Constitution Signer
Raskin’s correction was part of a broader argument against the GOP bill, which he contended contradicts the principles of the Declaration of Independence by imposing criminal law standards on the people of Washington, D.C., without their consent.
He emphasized that Jefferson’s document listed grievances against King George and Parliament, including the denial of the colonists’ right to define criminal offenses for themselves. In contrast, Donalds argued that his bill ensures adult criminals are treated as such, like the rest of the country.
The legislation, passed by the House after Wednesday’s debate, aims to amend the D.C. Council’s Youth Rehabilitation Act by lowering the eligibility for youth offender status from under 25 to 18 or younger.
Raskin, who won his primary race in Maryland’s 8th Congressional District on Tuesday, continues to advocate for the rights of the people of Washington, D.C., and uphold the principles of American history.
