Representative Nancy Pelosi, 85, said Thursday she will retire when her term ends in early 2027, closing a 39-year run representing San Francisco and serving as the nation’s first and only female House speaker. In a video on X set to cable cars and Victorian homes, she thanked constituents and urged, "San Francisco, know your power." Celebrated by Democrats for pushing Obamacare, climate and infrastructure bills and raising $1.3 billion, she remained a lightning rod, presiding over two Trump impeachment votes. Her exit accelerates a fierce succession fight and follows her behind-the-scenes push for California’s Proposition 50, which passed.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.