WASHINGTON, D.C. — Tensions are rising in the U.S. capital as former President Donald Trump moves to curtail the influence of Democratic Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, the District of Columbia’s nonvoting representative in Congress. The 88-year-old, who has served 18 terms since 1991, faces growing calls to step aside amid federal intervention in the city’s affairs and questions over her ability to effectively challenge Trump’s policies.
In recent months, Washington has been under heavy federal control, with troops patrolling streets and train stations, and masked law enforcement agents detaining residents. Trump’s emergency order, issued in August to combat surging crime, temporarily federalized the city’s police force and deployed National Guard troops — a move that critics say undermined local autonomy granted under the 1973 Home Rule Act. Although the order expired in September, federal agents remain active in the city.
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Amid these developments, some long-time allies and political analysts argue that Norton has struggled to mount a visible resistance. Donna Brazile, Norton’s former chief of staff, wrote in The Washington Post that “D.C. is under attack as at no other time in recent history, and we need a new champion to defend us,” adding that retirement “is the right next chapter for her — and for the District.”
Despite growing pressure, Norton has vowed not to step down and indicated plans to run again in 2026. Her office has declined interview requests, and she has continued to appear in Congress, though observers note that she has seemed frail and less vocal in recent hearings.
Her challengers include D.C. Council members Robert White Jr., a former Norton aide, and Brooke Pinto, both of whom have announced campaigns for the upcoming primary. The race is expected to be a defining moment for the city’s political future.
Historically, Norton has been a formidable advocate for D.C. statehood and voting rights. Before entering Congress, she became the first woman to chair the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and was a civil rights activist who worked alongside Medgar Evers and helped organize the 1963 March on Washington.
Yet, as Trump and congressional Republicans continue to restrict Washington’s local powers — including by rejecting parts of the city’s $1.1 billion budget — critics say a more active and visible leader could have strengthened resistance. “Even if it’s just using the bully pulpit, there are so many things that the delegate can do,” said Cliff Albright, co-founder of Black Voters Matter.
Mayor Muriel Bowser and Attorney General Brian Schwalb have taken on more prominent roles, with Bowser mediating between Congress and the administration, while Schwalb has sued over what he called federal overreach.
Still, some, like former Republican Congressman Tom Davis, defend Norton’s legacy. “She saved the city,” he said, citing her role in averting bankruptcy in the 1990s and expanding educational access. “She’s still respected and has earned the right to go out on her own terms — but that’s up to the voters.”
As the political climate intensifies and Trump reasserts federal control, Norton’s legacy — and the future of Washington’s self-governance — hang in the balance.
