Eleanor Holmes Norton Scammed, Dementia Concerns

Eleanor Holmes Norton, an 88-year-old non-voting delegate representing the United States — Washington, D.C. in the United States — United States House of Representatives, was scammed out of $4,400 by individuals posing as a cleaning crew. The incident, which occurred at her Washington D.C. home, led to a felony fraud investigation by the United States — Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia. A police report obtained by NBC4 described Eleanor Holmes Norton as having 'early signs of dementia,' a characterization her office disputed, stating the reporting officer was unqualified to make such a diagnosis. The event has intensified existing concerns about Eleanor Holmes Norton's cognitive health and her ability to continue serving, especially as she plans to seek re-election. Figures like Donna Brazile have publicly called for Eleanor Holmes Norton's retirement. Jacqueline Pelt, identified as Eleanor Holmes Norton's campaign treasurer and house manager, discovered the fraudulent charges and reported the incident.