Overview

• The 78-year-old New York Democrat said he will not seek reelection in 2026 and will retire at the end of his current term after 34 years in the House.
• Nadler framed the move as making room for younger leaders, urging some veteran Democrats to consider stepping aside as the party reassesses its future.
• His departure turns New York’s safely Democratic 12th District into an open-seat contest expected to draw a crowded primary field.
• A person familiar with his thinking told the New York Times he plans to back former aide and state Assemblymember Micah Lasher if Lasher runs, while 26-year-old Liam Elkind is already a declared candidate.
• Nadler rose to national prominence as House Judiciary chair leading impeachment efforts against President Donald Trump, and he recently gave up the panel’s top Democratic role.