NBC News • 1/25/2026 – 1/26/2026

Eleanor Holmes Norton, the long-serving Delegate representing Washington, D.C. in Congress, has officially announced the termination of her re-election campaign. This decision was made public four days ago, marking a significant moment in her political career, which has spanned nearly three decades. Norton’s withdrawal from the race highlights the evolving landscape of political representation in D.C., a city that has long sought greater autonomy and voting rights in Congress. Her tenure has been marked by advocacy for statehood and civil rights, reflecting broader struggles for representation faced by residents of the nation’s capital. This development resonates with ongoing discussions about the political status of D.C., as it underscores the challenges and complexities of governance in a federal system that often marginalizes urban populations. Norton's departure from the electoral scene may also signal a generational shift in leadership, prompting new voices to emerge in the fight for D.C. representation. As the conversation around statehood and local governance continues, her legacy will likely influence future debates and initiatives aimed at achieving equality for D.C. residents.
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