Nancy Pelosi Announces Retirement After Nearly Four Decades of Progressive Leadership in Congress

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a tireless advocate for working people and marginalized communities, announced on Thursday that she will not seek re-election in 2026, closing a congressional career that began in 1987. Pelosi, 85, shattered the glass ceiling as the first woman to serve as Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, holding the position from 2007 to 2011 and again from 2019 to 2023, and paving the way for future generations of women and minorities in government.

In a heartfelt video message to her constituents, Pelosi said, "I will not be seeking reelection to Congress. With a grateful heart, I look forward to my final year of service as your proud representative." Her words reflect a deep commitment to the people of San Francisco and the progressive values she has championed for decades.

Pelosi's tenure is marked by transformative legislative victories, including the passage of the Affordable Care Act, which expanded healthcare access for millions, and the Dodd-Frank financial reforms, which reined in Wall Street excesses. She also courageously led the House during both impeachments of President Donald Trump, holding the powerful accountable and defending democracy against authoritarian threats.

Democratic leaders have rightfully celebrated Pelosi's legacy. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries described her as "an iconic, heroic, trailblazing, legendary and transformational leader," emphasizing, "The United States is a much better nation today because Nancy Pelosi dedicated her life to serving the children, the climate, the country and the American people."

Pelosi's decision comes on the heels of the approval of Proposition 50 in California, a redistricting measure she supported to ensure fairer representation and to protect the voices of communities too often silenced by gerrymandering.

Pelosi's retirement marks the end of an era for Congressional Democrats and signals a generational shift, as new progressive leaders rise to continue the fight for justice, equality, and a better future for all.