HR 51, the bill in Congress for statehood for the District of Columbia, has 195 co-sponsors as of February 8. It has gained 40 co-sponsors in the last thirty days.

By contrast, other election-related constitutional amendments are not gaining co-sponsors. HJR 7, to provide for a direct popular election of the president, only has four co-sponsors and has not gained any co-sponsors since January 11. HJR 26, to increase the terms of U.S. House members from two years to four years, still has no co-sponsors.

The District of Columbia is somewhat likely to move its presidential primary from June to April, although there is no bill yet to make that change. Councilman Jack Evans is seeking the support of the D.C. Democratic Party for the idea. The party will consider the idea in March. Thanks to Frontloading HQ for this news.

On February 6, the Hawaii House Judiciary Committee passed HB 712. It says no presidential candidate may be listed on the November ballot unless he or she has release income tax returns. It also says no presidential elector may vote for anyone in the electoral college if that presidential candidate has not released his or her tax returns.