“What’s the point?” How many times have you asked yourself a question like this? Perhaps at school, when no matter how hard you study, you can’t seem to pass that exam. Maybe at the office, when you spend hours working on a presentation only to have your boss pass you over again. Not seeing any results from our efforts can be frustrating, irritating and can test the patience of the most resolute among us. Not seeing any results can drive us to seek out new paths. A lack of results demands change. So again, I ask: “What’s the point?” This time, however, my question is directed to Congress. What’s the point of a non-voting member on the floor?
Despite whatever efforts Guam Delegate Madeleine Bordallo may be putting in on the floor or in committee meetings, the fact still remains that she has no say in issues of law. She cannot vote on legislation.
Our representation in Congress is largely symbolic. In 1993, delegates from the territories were granted the right to vote in the Committee of the Whole; however, they could not make a deciding vote. This right was soon after revoked in 1995.
Full Article: Guam needs vote, true representation in Congress.