The Talk No One Wants To Have About Eleanor Holmes Norton

D.C.’s Congressional Representative Eleanor Holmes Norton is a household name in Washington, having served the District for 35 years. But as D.C. comes under more attacks from the Trump administration, many are concerned that she's not doing enough to fight for the city.

Who Is Eleanor Holmes Norton?

Norton is D.C. through and through. She grew up here and went to Dunbar High School, where she was at the center of the Civil Rights Movement. She was the first woman to chair the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and has been D.C.’s strongest voice in Congress since 1991.

During her tenure, Norton has succeeded in getting D.C. statehood voted on (though never passed), brought economic development to the District, and passed a law to provide college tuition benefits for D.C. students.

The Part Nobody Wants To Talk About

At 87, Norton is the second oldest member of Congress and many have noticed her conspicuous absence at a time when D.C. needs an advocate more than ever. When she does make public appearances, they are brief, often opting to release paper statements instead. Someone who worked closely with her said she clearly did not recognize him at an event, and others say she has had trouble getting around.

From a policy standpoint, she has faced criticism for her lack of progress on statehood despite bringing it to a vote several times over her 35 years in the office. Additionally, D.C. has a remarkably young average age, and Norton no longer reflects that demographic.

What’s Next For Norton?

In D.C.’s last three primaries, she’s won between 79 and 98 percent of the vote. So, if she runs again for a 19th term, which she plans to, a win is likely. There has been talk of a few Council Members throwing their hats in the ring, but nothing concrete.

There is no question that Norton has been a champion for D.C. and has more than earned the right to make her own decision about running. But the question remains, if she wins, does she have what it takes to keep fighting for D.C.?