Former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi To Retire From Congress

Nancy Pelosi, the first female Speaker of the House and long-time California Democrat, announced on Thursday that she will retire from Congress. She has represented San Francisco for nearly 40 years and confirmed in a video to her constituents that she will “not be seeking re-election.”

Pelosi, 85, stepped down as House Democratic leader in 2022, citing the right moment for a new generation to take charge, but remained in Congress with the honorary title of “Speaker Emerita”. Throughout her tenure, she was instrumental in passing major legislation under the Obama and Biden administrations, including the Affordable Care Act, climate initiatives, and infrastructure reforms.

Born into a prominent Baltimore political family, Pelosi entered politics at an early age and later moved to California with her husband, Paul. She first won a special election representing San Francisco at age 47. Over her decades-long career, she led House Democrats through major political chapters, including the 2008 financial crisis, internal caucus divisions, and a growing progressive wing. Pelosi was also known for her highly publicised and adversarial relationship with former President Donald Trump, which produced some of the most iconic moments of her speakership.