The District of Columbia is the municipal government of Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States. It is responsible for local legislation, funding, and development approvals. It operates as a unique federal district without full statehood, managing city services while under significant congressional oversight, as established by the U.S. Constitution (Article I, Section 8). The District is governed by a mayor and a 13-member council, and its local budget and laws are subject to congressional review and potential veto. Residents elect a non-voting delegate to the House of Representatives but have no voting representation in the Senate. The District's unique status has led to ongoing advocacy for statehood or expanded autonomy.