Democrats want D.C. statehood but it could actually help the GOP

The issue of Washington, D.C. statehood isn't a new issue, but it could be a deciding factor in the upcoming November elections.

Recently the House of Representatives voted 232-180 to grant statehood to the District of Columbia. There’s little chance that the Republican-controlled Senate will agree to give two senators to an overwhelmingly Democratic city.

But that could change if voters go to the polls this fall and give Democrats control of the House and the Senate as well.

24% of voters think Washington D.C. should be become the 51st state. 

D.C. becoming the 51st state would mean the District would have two more senators in the upper chamber.  Some proponents also argue that "retroceding" D.C. or giving the land back to Virginia and Maryland is the way to go, as it would keep the number of senators the same.

Democrats are evenly divided on statehood or giving the land back.

However, 62% of Republicans support retrocession. Suburban voters, by a 2:1 margin, also back retrocession.  This could be a boost for Republicans because it's an issue that could rally supporters.  

Scott Rasmussen explains in his Number of the Day.