Nancy Pelosi to Retire After Four Decades in Congress, Marking End of an Era

Nancy Pelosi, the first woman to serve as Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives and a towering figure in American politics, announced she will not seek reelection in 2026. The 85-year-old Democrat from California, first elected in 1987, made the announcement just days after voters approved “Proposition 50,” a redistricting measure designed to help Democrats flip key congressional seats. With her decision, Pelosi will conclude a four-decade-long career defined by fierce partisanship, historic legislative victories, and a steadfast defense of progressive ideals.

Throughout her tenure, Pelosi was at the center of major political battles, including two impeachments of former President Donald Trump, whom she described as a “creature” unfit for the presidency. Known for her sharp political instincts and iron-fisted leadership, Pelosi played a pivotal role in passing landmark laws such as the Affordable Care Act and the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act. Despite years of partisan conflict and personal challenges—including the 2022 assault on her husband—she remained a defining force in Democratic politics and a trailblazer for women in leadership.

As Pelosi prepares to leave Congress at the end of her 20th term, Democrats face a generational transition. Her departure, though expected, marks the loss of one of the party’s most effective fundraisers and strategists. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries praised Pelosi as an “iconic, legendary, transformational figure” whose leadership reshaped American governance. Pelosi’s exit closes a historic chapter for the Democratic Party and for U.S. politics, where she broke barriers and wielded the speaker’s gavel with unmatched influence.

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