Finally, all DC advocates come to see statehood as the only realistic option. On September 19th, 2019, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Mayor Muriel Bowser and the top members of Bowser’s Administration present legislation, HR 51, calling for statehood for Washington, DC before a House Congressional Committee. Democrats on the panel are sympathetic but Republicans state their strong opposition. The legislation then must be considered by the Senate where DC supporters expect opposition from Senate Majority leader Mitch McConnell. The Congressional hearing occurs at the same time that the Washington Nationals are playing in the World Series.  The House bill passes out of committee and is slated to be considered by the House on June 26, 2020.  Witnesses and historians look at the long history of Washington’s fight for representation in Congress and for self-government.  They make the case for voting rights as a fundamental issue, affecting a population that has now reached 702,000 people. Unexpectedly, the Nationals win the World Series, a first in baseball franchise history. In thinking about this remarkable win, District Councilmember Anita Bonds flags the fact Washington, DC’s residents, in every way but voting rights, are part of the fabric of America and deserve equal rights of self-government.