Updated Jan 27, 2026 - Politics & Policy

Eleanor Holmes Norton announces retirement from Congress

Eleanor Holmes Norton pictured in House hearing room — Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton. Photo: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.) ended months of speculation Tuesday by announcing she will retire from Congress next year rather than seek another term.

Why it matters: The announcement marks the end of a decades-long career marked by fierce advocacy on behalf of D.C. residents — but marred recently by signs of cognitive decline.

What they're saying: "With fire in my soul and the facts on my side, I have raised hell about the injustice of denying 700,000 taxpaying Americans the same rights given to residents of the states for 33 years," Norton said in a statement.

Norton, 88, said she plans to serve to the end of her term.

Between the lines: Norton officially closed her reelection campaign committee on Sunday, but didn't comment on her plans until Tuesday.

What's ahead: D.C. Council members Robert White and Brooke Pinto are running for the seat, along with former DNC official Kinney Zalesne, former Norton staffer Trent Holbrook, and several other names.

Pinto, 33, said earlier this month she raised $830,000.
Zalesne, 59, reported raising $435,000 between July and September in 2025.
New fundraising reports are due at the end of the month.

Editor's note: This is a breaking news story. Check back for updates.

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Eleanor Holmes Norton announces retirement from Congress

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