WASHINGTON (FN) — Nancy Pelosi, the California Democrat who became the first woman to serve as Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, announced Thursday she will not seek re-election in 2026, concluding a nearly 40-year tenure in Congress.
Pelosi, 85, shared the news in a video message to constituents, saying she will step down at the end of her term in January 2027. “We have made history, we have made progress,” she said. “San Francisco, know your power.”
President Joe Biden praised Pelosi as “the most consequential Speaker of the House in American history,” citing her leadership during the passage of landmark legislation including the Affordable Care Act and pandemic relief efforts.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries called her “an icon of American politics” and credited her with breaking barriers and guiding the Democratic caucus through turbulent times.
Pelosi was first elected to Congress in 1987 and quickly rose through the ranks. She served as Speaker from 2007 to 2011 and again from 2019 to 2023, overseeing major legislative battles and navigating deep partisan divides.
Her tenure included confrontations with President Donald Trump, including two impeachment proceedings. Pelosi drew global attention in 2020 when she tore up Trump’s State of the Union address on live television.
Though criticized by Republicans who viewed her as emblematic of liberal coastal politics, Pelosi maintained strong support within her party for her strategic discipline and legislative skill.
She initially resisted calls for Trump’s impeachment in 2019 but reversed course after revelations about his dealings with Ukraine, calling it an abuse of power that demanded accountability.
Under President Biden, Pelosi helped pass a sweeping COVID-19 relief package, a bipartisan infrastructure law, climate and social spending legislation, and protections for same-sex marriage.
Even after stepping down as Speaker, Pelosi remained politically active. In 2026, she played a key role in passing California’s Proposition 50, a redistricting measure aimed at helping Democrats gain five House seats.
Pelosi’s retirement marks the end of an era in American politics. As Democrats prepare for the 2026 elections, her departure will reshape the party’s leadership and legislative strategy.
