Eleanor Holmes Norton, the long-serving nonvoting delegate for Washington, D.C., faces mounting criticism over her diminished visibility and effectiveness amid increased federal intervention in the city, including troop patrols and law enforcement detentions.

Calls for Norton to step down have grown, with potential replacements from the D.C. Council, including a former aide, amid concerns that her leadership is insufficient during this crisis.

Despite her historic role and civil rights activism, Norton has appeared less active and more unsteady during public appearances, prompting calls for her to step down and for new leadership to better advocate for D.C.'s interests.

The political landscape is shifting, with potential candidates from the city’s Democratic primary emerging to challenge her, reflecting a desire for fresh leadership to address federal overreach and local needs.

Norton has resisted retirement and plans to run for re-election in 2026, even as city leaders and critics argue that her leadership is inadequate during this crisis.

Both major parties are seeking new faces, and Norton's future in office remains uncertain, with her indicating plans to run again despite increasing calls for her to step aside.

City leaders, including Mayor Muriel Bowser and the Attorney General, have taken a more active role in representing D.C.'s interests amid federal overreach, filling the void left by Norton's perceived inaction.

The race to succeed Norton has begun, with two city council members, Robert White Jr. and Brooke Pinto, announcing campaigns, reflecting a broader push for new leadership in the district.

Norton’s legacy includes significant civil rights activism and her pioneering role as the first woman to lead the EEOC, but her recent performance has led many to question her capacity to advocate effectively for D.C.

Her age and recent public appearances, where she appeared unsteady, have fueled speculation about her future and the need for new leadership.

Critics argue that Norton has not actively opposed federal interventions, such as the deployment of troops and federal agents, which have increased federal influence over local affairs.

The upcoming election and the emergence of new candidates highlight a broader desire for renewal in D.C.'s political leadership, with many emphasizing the importance of voter choice.

The limited home rule for D.C. means the delegate’s role is crucial, but recent federal actions have challenged her ability to effectively advocate for the city’s autonomy.