Eleanor Holmes Norton, Washington, D.C.’s nonvoting congressional delegate, appeared visibly frail during her first public event since President Donald Trump’s federal takeover of the capital, fueling renewed debate over aging lawmakers.
At a rally opposing federal incursions into Democratic-led cities, Norton, 88, delivered quiet remarks before appearing hunched and struggling to walk away from the podium.
Video shows a congressional aide quickly rushing to steady her by the arm as Rep. Judy Chu (D-CA) began speaking, attempting to redirect the crowd’s attention.
88-year-old DC Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton just made her first public appearance since Trump sent the Guard into DC and could not walk away from the podium without help from a staffer.
She recently announced she’s running for re-election. pic.twitter.com/qRTVKjIMSO
— Greg Price (@greg_price11) September 3, 2025
The brief appearance drew only modest applause and underscored concerns about Norton’s health, even as she recently announced plans to seek reelection in 2026.
Silent Role in Trump’s D.C. Takeover
Norton has long opposed Trump’s agenda, but she has played a relatively muted role since Trump deployed National Guard and FBI officers to Washington and assumed control of the Metropolitan Police Department.
The federal intervention cut crime in the capital nearly in half within weeks. Norton called the move “counterproductive” and a “historic assault on D.C. home rule,” warning it underscored the need for her D.C. statehood bill.
Still, apart from that statement, she has been less vocal than other Democrats, taking a backseat as Trump consolidates power in the city.
Working With Local Leaders
A spokeswoman insisted Norton remains active behind the scenes, “working diligently with Mayor Bowser, city officials and her colleagues discussing how to support the District’s response and prevent further federal incursions against D.C.’s right to handle its own affairs.”
Mayor Muriel Bowser has also adopted a restrained approach, recently signing an executive order to provide “indefinite” coordination with federal authorities, signaling recognition of limited local leverage.
Broader Debate Over Age in Congress
Norton’s frail appearance renewed criticism about the advanced age of members of Congress. As of early 2025, the average age is 57.5 in the House and 63.9 in the Senate. Norton, at 88, is one of the oldest members still serving.
Critics argue her condition reflects a broader generational problem, while her supporters note her decades of service as D.C.’s self-described “warrior on the Hill.”
