Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is expected to announce her retirement from Congress following Tuesday’s elections, marking a potential end to her four-decade career in federal politics. California voters will decide on “Proposition 50,” a plan to redraw the state’s congressional districts, which has drawn significant attention as a strategic move for Democrats.
Multiple Democratic sources in California and Congress suggest Pelosi, 85, may choose not to seek re-election in 2026 after representing her San Francisco-based district for nearly four decades. A House Democrat from California expressed admiration for Pelosi’s legacy, stating, “I think she’s out. She’s going to go out with Prop 50 overwhelmingly passing, and what a crowning achievement for her to do that.”
If confirmed, Pelosi’s departure would signal the end of an era in Congress, where her legislative expertise and fundraising prowess helped her become the first woman to hold the speakership. Her exit could intensify competition for her high-profile House seat, with two Democrats already entering the district’s primary. Despite raising over $2 million this election cycle and maintaining a $1.5 million war chest, Pelosi has not actively countered rivals Scott Wiener and Saikat Chakrabarti, who would challenge her if she runs again.
Wiener, a state senator, announced his congressional bid last month, vowing to “fight Trump’s takeover” and advance progressive policies. Chakrabarti, a former aide to Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, also entered the race. A House Democratic leadership aide noted, “It’s official: I’m running for Congress to represent San Francisco! I’ll fight Trump’s takeover, for our values, & for real progress.”
Pelosi’s decision to step down comes after she lost her speakership in 2024 and reportedly pressured President Biden to end his re-election campaign. A Biden White House official acknowledged the former president’s “grudging respect” for Pelosi despite her actions.
Ian Krager, a spokesperson for Pelosi, declined to confirm whether she will seek a 20th term but emphasized her focus on advancing Proposition 50. “Speaker Pelosi is fully focused on her mission to win the Yes on 50 special election in California on Tuesday,” he said.