Nancy Pelosi, the first woman to serve as Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, has announced that she will not seek re-election at the end of her current term, marking the end of a groundbreaking and influential career in Congress. Pelosi, who is 85 years old, has represented California's 12th district for nearly 40 years. Her decision comes after a historic tenure in which she played a central role in shaping major legislation, including the Affordable Care Act and key economic stimulus packages.

Throughout her time in office, Pelosi was a powerful figure in the Democratic Party, serving as House Speaker from 2007 to 2011 and again from 2019 to 2023. Under her leadership, the House passed significant reforms in healthcare, climate change, and financial regulation. Pelosi was also a key player in the impeachment proceedings against former President Donald Trump, securing her place as one of the most prominent and polarizing figures in U.S. politics.

Her retirement marks a major shift in the leadership of the Democratic Party, as calls for younger leadership have grown louder in recent years. Pelosi’s decision to step down will create a vacuum in the party, with her long-time allies and rivals within the House now looking toward the future of the party's leadership.

Pelosi will continue to serve out her current term, which ends in January 2027, and is expected to remain active in political and public affairs. Her legacy, however, will be defined by her role in breaking barriers for women in politics and her ability to navigate the complex world of U.S. legislation for nearly four decades.

Sources: AP News, The Guardian