Overview
- In a video message, the 85-year-old said she will not seek reelection and will complete her current term, which ends Jan. 3, 2027.
- The announcement came two days after voters approved Proposition 50, a redistricting plan she backed that is intended to boost Democrats in 2026 and is facing a federal lawsuit from the state GOP.
- The open, heavily Democratic seat has drawn early contenders, including state Sen. Scott Wiener and progressive organizer Saikat Chakrabarti.
- Pelosi’s legacy includes shepherding the Affordable Care Act, major infrastructure and climate laws, leading two Trump impeachments, and forming the Jan. 6 select committee.
- Reactions were sharply divided, with Democrats such as Hakeem Jeffries praising her career, while President Trump called her “evil” and “corrupt” and said her retirement was “a great thing for America.”