WASHINGTON, D.C. NEWS – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton faces scrutiny as “no-show” as Trump takes over D.C. police and the city’s security

Ananya Roy, Staff Writer

Eleanor Holmes Norton, who is age 88, one of the oldest members of Congress, and Washington D.C.’s long-serving nonvoting House delegate, is drawing criticism for her silent public response after President Donald Trump seized control of the city’s police force and moved to deploy National Guard troops, actions she called “a historic assault on D.C. home rule” in a written statement only. While Mayor Muriel Bowser and other Democrats have held press conferences and issued joint statements condemning the move as authoritarian overreach, Norton has hidden from the press and avoided public appearances, declining interviews, and staying off the front lines.

Norton’s office says she has been working behind the scenes with city leaders, civic groups, and the Congressional Black Caucus to coordinate a response, arguing that a low-key approach could prevent Trump from escalating attacks. But the strategy has sparked frontal attacks among some Democrats and challengers, who say the moment calls for an “unrelenting voice” for D.C.’s autonomy. The controversy comes as Norton faces questions about whether she will seek a 19th term in 2026, amid concerns over her fading presence in the House. The fight over D.C. home rule is seen by supporters as a critical test of federal overreach with implications for democracy nationwide.