Part 6/8:
However, this suggestion sparks confusion and controversy. Legal and constitutional experts explained that the idea of "federalizing" D.C. is somewhat misleading because Washington, D.C., is already a federal district governed directly by Congress, as established by the U.S. Constitution. Traditionally, the federal government has exerted control over the district through Congress, including the appointment of local officials before the 1973 district home rule was established—an arrangement that has struggled with its effectiveness.