Nancy Pelosi is officially closing out her historic congressional career.
The California Democrat announced Thursday that she will not seek reelection in 2026, marking the end of more than four decades in Congress — a tenure that saw her become the first woman to serve as Speaker of the House and one of the most influential, and divisive, figures in modern American politics.
In a video message posted to social media, Pelosi reflected on her long service and deep ties to her hometown. “There has been no greater honor for me than to stand on the House floor and say I speak for the people of San Francisco,” she 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.”
She urged her city to remain civically engaged, saying, “San Francisco, know your power. We have made history, we have made progress, we have always led the way. And now we must continue to do so by remaining full participants in our democracy and fighting for the American ideals we hold dear.”
At 85, Pelosi had already stepped down from Democratic leadership in 2023, handing the gavel to Rep. Hakeem Jeffries. But she chose to remain in Congress as a rank-and-file member — an unusual move for a former Speaker — to help guide her party through a turbulent political era.
Pelosi’s departure will mark the close of a historic chapter in Washington, defined by her fierce partisanship, legislative skill, and trailblazing leadership that reshaped both the House and her party.