The New York Times • 1/25/2026 – 1/28/2026

Eleanor Holmes Norton, the 88-year-old nonvoting delegate representing Washington, D.C., has officially announced her retirement, effective at the end of her current term. This decision comes as she has been stepping back from her responsibilities due to health concerns. Norton’s retirement marks the end of a significant chapter in D.C. politics, as she has served in Congress since 1991, advocating for the rights of D.C. residents. Her departure highlights ongoing discussions about the representation of Washington, D.C., in Congress, a topic that has persisted for decades. The issue of D.C. statehood and voting rights remains a contentious political debate, reflecting broader themes of representation and democracy in the United States. Norton’s long tenure and her role as a trailblazer for women and minorities in politics underscore the importance of diverse voices in legislative processes. Her retirement not only signifies a personal transition but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equal representation for D.C. residents, a matter that continues to resonate in American political discourse.
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