


Eleanor Holmes Norton, the District's congressional delegate, said she is optimistic federal lawmakers will grant D.C. autonomy over its local budget when Congress returns in January 2013.
Norton has been optimistic about the chances of budget autonomy for the District all year long. But with the congressional session winding to a close, it's unlikely Congress will deal with the issue before the 113th Congress convenes next year.
Disappointment aside, Norton said she's glad the effort picked up momentum in 2012. Norton noted that Eric Cantor became House majority leader in the 112th Congress and that Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell was elected governor in the same session.
"A lot happened in the 112th Congress," Norton said. "If we continue to build support like that, we can make this bill happen."
Always an optimist, Norton said she plans to continue pressing the issue in the new year.

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