Pelosi has been a hallmark of Democrat politics. But this has changed everything.
Because Nancy Pelosi stunned everyone with a bombshell retirement announcement.
Pelosi’s Congressional Farewell Announced
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi revealed on Thursday her plans to step away from Congress at the close of 2026, wrapping up an impressive 20 terms in office. The 85-year-old California Democrat shared the news in a heartfelt video addressed to her San Francisco supporters.
“I have truly loved serving as your voice in Congress,” the California Democrat, 85, said in a video to her San Francisco constituents. “With a grateful heart, I look forward to my final year of service as your proud representative.”
A Storied Career and Political Legacy
This decision puts an end to rumors about her intentions following Tuesday’s election, marking the conclusion of nearly four decades on Capitol Hill. Mrs. Pelosi, who has represented her district since 1987, etched her name in history as the nation’s first and only female House speaker.
A powerhouse in Democratic circles, she held the speaker’s gavel across four presidential terms, shepherded major legislation like the Affordable Care Act, and proved an unmatched fundraiser, amassing over $1 billion for the party.
Her tenure included leading two impeachments of President Trump, forming the bipartisan Jan. 6 select committee, and memorably tearing up his 2020 State of the Union speech on live television—earning her the nickname “Crazy Nancy” from the president.
White House correspondent Peter Doocy said the president told him: “The retirement of Nancy Pelosi is a great thing for America. I’m very honored she impeached me twice and failed miserably twice. Nancy Pelosi is a highly overrated politician.”
Mrs. Pelosi stepped aside from Democratic leadership in 2024 to pave the path for younger voices, resulting in Rep. Hakeem Jeffries of New York becoming House minority leader. Mr. Jeffries described Mrs. Pelosi as “the greatest Speaker of all time.”
“Personally, Speaker Pelosi has been an incredible mentor, trusted friend and awesome colleague who has profoundly blessed me with her insights, perspectives and leadership values,” he said on social media.
She also influenced President Biden’s choice to exit the 2024 presidential race. Her current term expires on Jan. 3, 2027.
Succession and San Francisco’s Future
In her district, the Democratic primary is already taking shape with state Sen. Scott Wiener and Saikat Chakrabarti—ex-chief of staff to Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez—jumping into the race. Speculation swirls around a potential bid from her daughter, Christine Pelosi, a veteran party activist who has yet to announce.
Mrs. Pelosi sidestepped earlier queries about her future, prioritizing the successful passage of California’s Proposition 50, which voters approved to redraw congressional lines.
“As we go forward, my message to the city I love is this: 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,” she concluded in her video.
Her post-Congress plans remain under wraps, as debates on refreshing Democratic leadership continue to resonate in the nation’s capital.
