'An Icon of American Politics': Democrats React as Nancy Pelosi Announces She Will Not Seek Re-Election to Congress

Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi will not seek re-election to Congress and will retire when her term concludes in early 2027, the San Francisco Representative announced on Thursday. “For decades, I’ve cherished the privilege of representing our magnificent city in the United States Congress,” Pelosi said in a video dedicated to San Francisco. “With a grateful heart, I look forward to my final year of service as your proud Representative.” Pelosi has served as the Representative for San Francisco since 1987. She made history as the first—and only—female Speaker of the House in 2007, which cemented her legacy as a powerful Democratic figure in Congress. The 85-year-old announced her retirement in a video highlighting historic wins—from the passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to fighting the HIV/AIDS crisis, to infrastructure and climate change legislation. Her retirement news arrives just days after voters passed Proposition 50, a California ballot measure that will allow the state to redraw its congressional map to add more Democratic seats in the House—an action Pelosi campaigned for. Following Pelosi’s announcement, her fellow Democrats have reacted to the news and paid tribute to her service, which spans nearly four decades. California State’s Sen. Scott Wiener, who announced last month he was running for Pelosi’s seat, thanked the Representative for her “years of courageous and tireless service to our country.” “Speaker Emerita Pelosi is more than a legislator—she is an icon of American politics,” said Wiener. “She led the fight for health care and obliterated Trump when he tried to repeal it.” California’s Gov. Gavin Newsom, a longtime friend of Pelosi’s, congratulated the former Speaker on this “new chapter” of her life. “Nancy Pelosi has inspired generations. Her courage and conviction to San Francisco, California, and our nation has set the standard for what public service should be. Her impact on this nation is unmatched,” Newsom said. This is a developing story…