‘Refusing to step down’

Eleanor Holmes Norton Addresses Reelection Plans Amid Age Concerns

Eleanor Holmes Norton, the longest-serving member of Congress, has responded to increasing worries about her age by confirming her intention to seek reelection.

“My seniority is crucial, and I’m not planning to step aside,” Norton, who has represented the District of Columbia since 1991, stated in a conversation with Axios.

Born in 1937, there’s been some unease among her colleagues and friends regarding what they describe as noticeable mental decline over the past few years, as reported earlier this year by the New York Times.

Norton’s unwavering commitment to her role is particularly significant as concerns grow about the influence of the Trump administration on her district. This scenario reflects a broader trend among older Democratic members of Congress.

The discussion around generational change in leadership was highlighted recently when New York Democrat Jerry Nadler, who is 10 years younger than Norton at 78, announced his retirement, emphasizing the need for “generational change” within the party.

Former President Joe Biden previously acknowledged this shift with Vice President Kamala Harris during the 2024 election, stressing the importance of a new generation within the party.

Conversely, other members, like 80-year-old Rep. David Scott and 77-year-old John Larson, have chosen to run again despite health concerns.

“Generational change is important, but it’s essential to grasp it,” Larson remarked to Axios, reflecting on the ongoing dialogue about age and capability in Congress.

In February, Larson faced health issues during a session, raising questions about his mental fitness, an area of concern that has drawn attention in recent months.

Out of the 14 members of Congress who are over 80, 11 belong to the Democratic Party. Notably, the oldest representative after 87-year-old Hal Rogers (R-KY) is also a Democrat.