A Democrat Congresswoman representing Washington, D.C., was reportedly scammed out of over $4,000 by individuals posing as cleaning crew members, raising questions about her ability to serve in public office. Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton, 88, allegedly allowed suspects into her home, where they charged her credit card for services not rendered. A police report cited concerns about “the early stages of dementia” but was disputed by her office.
The incident occurred when multiple individuals claiming to be HVAC workers arrived at Norton’s residence on Thursday. She permitted them entry, though no work took place. The suspects billed $4,362 for duct and fireplace cleaning, according to the report. At the time, Norton’s caretaker with power of attorney was absent, and the home manager, Jacqueline Pelt, later canceled her credit cards after discovering the unauthorized charges.
Norton’s office stated she employs a house manager to oversee maintenance services, leading her to initially assume the visit had been approved. However, upon review of security footage, the manager confirmed no appointment had been scheduled, prompting the police report. The office denied claims that Norton relies on a caretaker, emphasizing Pelt’s role as a “friend and longtime aide.”
The incident has reignited debates about the physical and mental fitness of long-serving politicians, with critics arguing that aging lawmakers should not hold public office. Norton, who serves in a non-voting capacity, remains a figure of controversy amid growing scrutiny of her health and judgment.
