Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, the first woman to serve as Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives and the longest-serving House Democratic Leader in history. (Official U.S. House photo)
Nancy Pelosi, the first woman elected Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives and the longest-serving House leader in American history, announced she will not seek reelection, ending a 38-year career that reshaped Congress and U.S. politics.
SAN FRANCISCO — Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi announced on Thursday, November 6, 2025 that she will not seek reelection to the U.S. Congress, concluding an extraordinary 38-year career that transformed American politics and redefined leadership in Washington. The 85-year-old Democrat will complete her current term representing California’s 11th Congressional District, which covers most of San Francisco, before stepping down in January 2027.
‘With a grateful heart, we have made history’
In a video message to her constituents, Pelosi expressed gratitude to the people of San Francisco and reflected on her decades of service.
“Together, with a grateful heart, we have made history,” she said. “I will serve out this term with gratitude and purpose, and as always, know your power.”
Her decision ends months of speculation about her political future. Pelosi, who made history in 2007 as the first woman Speaker of the House, became one of the most influential lawmakers in U.S. history, guiding her party through legislative milestones and periods of division.
A trailblazer in American governance
Pelosi entered Congress in 1987, winning a special election to succeed the late Rep. Sala Burton. Since then, she has won 20 consecutive terms, serving under five U.S. presidents and becoming the longest-serving House Democratic Leaderin history, according to the U.S. House Historian.
She held the Speaker’s gavel twice, from 2007 to 2011 and from 2019 to 2023, leading the House through major policy debates, economic challenges, and the pandemic. Known for her discipline and negotiating skill, Pelosi often cited her father’s career as Baltimore’s mayor as the foundation of her approach to public service.
Legislative legacy and leadership
Pelosi’s career in Congress produced several landmark measures that continue to shape national policy:
- Affordable Care Act (2010): She was key in guiding the health care law through the House.
- American Rescue Plan (2021): As Speaker, she helped pass pandemic relief legislation that supported families and businesses.
- Infrastructure and climate programs: She supported long-term investments in clean energy, transportation, and innovation.
- Government oversight: Pelosi presided over two impeachment proceedings against former President Donald Trump and backed investigations into the January 6 Capitol attack.
Her understanding of procedure and her ability to unify her caucus earned her recognition across party lines as an effective congressional leader.
Leadership that reshaped Congress
Pelosi’s retirement marks a generational shift in both California politics and the Democratic Party. She expanded the presence of women in government, promoted diversity in leadership roles, and strengthened the role of Congress in national policymaking.
Her departure opens a rare vacancy in California’s 11th District, a Democratic stronghold expected to attract several contenders in 2026. The systems she helped build in the House, centered on accountability and results, are expected to influence its operations for years to come.
Pelosi’s career stands as one of the longest and most consequential in congressional history, marked by consistency, discipline, and a lasting commitment to public service.
