Nancy Pelosi announces retirement after decades in US Congress

Pelosi made history as the first female Speaker and left an indelible mark on US politics.

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In a video message on Thursday, Pelosi said she will not be seeking re-election to Congress at the end of her term in January 2027.

It marks the end of a storied political career: Pelosi, 85, became the first woman to serve as Speaker of the House and led her party in the lower chamber of Congress from 2003 until 2023.

"We have made history, we have made progress," Pelosi said in her message.

"We have always led the way, and now we must continue to do so by remaining full participants in our democracy, and fighting for the American ideals we hold dear."