For three decades, Eleanor Holmes Norton has embodied her role as the District of Columbia’s delegate in Congress. But with her grip on the job seemingly slipping and nine months to go until the Democratic primary, local politicians are bracing for a fight not seen since her first election in 1990.

On paper, it’s a tough sell: The delegate is among the least powerful members of the House, with no final vote on the floor and the sisyphean task of pushing for statehood. Recently, the gig has involved locking horns with Republicans as the president sends in federal troops.

But in a part of the country with no sworn senators, no representatives, and no governor’s office to run for, Norton’s seat is looking pretty good to a growing list of hopefuls.

“This is a huge opportunity for people. Th

See Full Page