In a moment that marks the end of an extraordinary era in American politics, Democratic Representative Nancy Pelosi has announced her retirement from Congress after nearly four decades of service. The 85-year-old lawmaker from California confirmed on November 6, 2025, that she will not seek re-election when her current term expires in January 2027.
Pelosi, the first and only woman to serve as Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, made her announcement through a video message shared on Thursday. Her decision came just one day after the 2025 general elections, a timing that underscores the broader generational transition now taking place within the Democratic Party.
During her historic 38-year career, Pelosi became one of the most influential figures in modern legislative history. She first entered Congress in 1987, representing a San Francisco-based district, and rose through the Democratic ranks with a blend of political skill, determination, and strategic insight. Born into a political family – her father, Thomas D’Alesandro Jr., served as mayor of Baltimore – Pelosi carried her family’s political legacy to the national stage, ultimately shaping decades of policy and leadership within her party.
As Speaker, Pelosi was at the forefront of landmark legislation, including the Affordable Care Act (2010) and the American Rescue Plan (2021). Her ability to unite a divided caucus and guide major bills through Congress earned her both praise and criticism, but her influence was undeniable. She also presided over two impeachment inquiries into former President Donald Trump, further solidifying her reputation as a commanding and resilient political force.
Following the announcement, Trump responded on his Truth Social platform, calling Pelosi a “very evil woman,” a comment reflecting their long and contentious political rivalry.
Pelosi’s retirement joins a wave of high-profile exits among long-serving Democrats, including former Majority Leader Steny Hoyer. Analysts say her departure symbolizes a “changing of the guard” as a new generation of Democratic leaders – such as Rep. Robert Garcia and other younger lawmakers – begins to shape the future direction of the party.
In her farewell message, Pelosi expressed gratitude to her constituents and colleagues, reflecting on decades of service marked by both progress and challenge. “It has been the honor of a lifetime to represent the people of San Francisco and to help build a stronger, fairer America,” she said.
Her exit marks not only the close of a legendary political career but also a significant turning point for U.S. governance. Few figures have left such a deep imprint on Congress – from advancing women’s representation in leadership to navigating some of the most contentious moments in modern political history.As Nancy Pelosi prepares to leave Capitol Hill, her legacy endures as one of tenacity, trailblazing leadership, and transformative impact – the story of a woman who redefined what is possible in American politics.
