Nancy Pelosi First Female Speaker of the U.S. Announces Retirement
Nancy Pelosi, one of the most powerful and influential figures in American politics, has announced her retirement from Congress, marking the end of a historic career that reshaped the U.S. political landscape.
Pelosi, 85, confirmed in a video message that she will not seek re-election when her term ends in January 2027, officially bringing to a close nearly four decades of service representing San Francisco, California.
Pelosi’s retirement ends months of speculation about her future. In her announcement video, featuring cinematic images of San Francisco, she expressed deep gratitude to her city and supporters.
“We have made history, we have made progress,” Pelosi said. “As we go forward, my message to the city I love is this: San Francisco, know your power.”
Her decision to step aside opens up her powerful congressional seat to a new generation of Democratic leaders in California. It also marks a major turning point for the Democratic Party, as it prepares for a post-Pelosi era in Washington.
Who is Nancy Pelosi?
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Nancy Patricia D’Alesandro Pelosi |
| Date of Birth | March 26, 1940 |
| Age | 85 years (as of 2025) |
| Place of Birth | Baltimore, Maryland, U.S. |
| Political Party | Democratic |
| Spouse | Paul Pelosi (married 1963) |
| Children | 5 (including Christine Pelosi and Alexandra Pelosi) |
| Relatives | Thomas D’Alesandro Jr. (father), Thomas D’Alesandro III (brother) |
| Education | Trinity College, Washington D.C. (Bachelor of Arts) |
| Awards | Presidential Medal of Freedom (2024) |
| Known For | First woman Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives |
From San Francisco to Washington Power
Pelosi was first elected to Congress in 1987, representing the 12th District of California. Over the next 38 years, she became known for her sharp political instincts, strong leadership, and ability to navigate complex legislative battles.
She made history in 2007 by becoming the first woman to serve as Speaker of the House, one of the highest offices in U.S. government and second in line to the presidency after the Vice President.
Pelosi served as Speaker twice — from 2007 to 2011 and again from 2019 to 2023 — guiding her party through multiple presidencies and historic events.
Shaping Policy and Making History
During her long tenure, Pelosi was instrumental in passing major legislation, including:
- The Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) under President Barack Obama.
- Infrastructure and climate change bills during President Joe Biden’s term.
- COVID-19 relief packages during the pandemic.
Her leadership extended through key moments in U.S. history — from the AIDS crisis of the 1980s and 90s to the legalization of same-sex marriage and the tech boom in the Bay Area.
Nancy Pelosi vs. Trump: A Defining Rivalry
Pelosi’s political career was also marked by her fiery clashes with former President Donald Trump. Their rivalry became symbolic of America’s deep political divisions.
One of the most memorable moments came in 2020, when Pelosi ripped up Trump’s State of the Union speech on live television — an image that instantly went viral.
She also led two impeachment efforts against Trump — first in 2019 over his dealings with Ukraine, and again in 2021 after the January 6th Capitol attack. Both times, Trump was acquitted in the Republican-controlled Senate.
A Legacy of Power and Progress
Even after stepping down as Speaker, Pelosi remained a major political influence. She helped shape California’s Proposition 50, a redistricting measure aimed at helping Democrats gain more seats in the 2026 midterms.
Over her career, Pelosi built a reputation as a master strategist and a tireless advocate for liberal causes — from health care and climate policy to women’s rights and LGBTQ+ equality.
End of an Era, Start of a New Chapter
Nancy Pelosi’s retirement signals the end of one of the longest and most impactful political careers in U.S. history. Her exit opens the door for a new generation of Democratic leadership, but her influence and legacy will remain deeply rooted in Washington and San Francisco.
As Pelosi put it, “We have always led the way, and now we must continue to do so — by remaining full participants in our democracy.”
Personal Life of Nancy Pelosi
Nancy D’Alesandro met Paul Francis Pelosi while studying at Trinity College. The couple married on September 7, 1963, at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen in Baltimore. After their marriage, they lived in New York before moving to San Francisco in 1969, where Paul’s brother, Ronald Pelosi, served on the city’s Board of Supervisors.
Nancy and Paul Pelosi have five children, including Christine and Alexandra, and are proud grandparents of nine grandchildren.
- Alexandra Pelosi is a journalist and filmmaker known for Journeys with George, a documentary about the 2000 Republican presidential campaign.
- Christine Pelosi is an author of Campaign Boot Camp: Basic Training for Future Leaders (2007).
Pelosi resides in the Pacific Heights neighborhood of San Francisco. According to her 2016 financial disclosure, her assets include a home and vineyard in St. Helena, two commercial buildings in San Francisco, and a townhouse in Loomis, California.
In January 2021, her San Francisco home was vandalized with graffiti, including “cancel rent” messages, fake blood, and a severed pig’s head left in front of her garage.
FAQs
What is Nancy Pelosi’s age?
Nancy Pelosi is 85 years old, born on March 26, 1940, in Baltimore, Maryland.
When is Nancy Pelosi retiring?
She announced her retirement from Congress and confirmed she will not seek re-election after her term ends in January 2027.
What is Nancy Pelosi’s portfolio?
Pelosi’s portfolio includes assets like a home and vineyard in St. Helena, two commercial buildings in San Francisco, and a townhouse in Loomis, California.
Was Nancy Pelosi involved in insider trading?
Pelosi has faced public criticism and allegations of insider trading due to her stock trades, but she has not been charged with any wrongdoing.
Who is Nancy Pelosi’s husband?
Her husband is Paul Francis Pelosi, a businessman and investor. They married in 1963 and have five children.
What is the Nancy Pelosi stock tracker?
The Pelosi Stock Tracker is a term used by online communities that monitor her and her husband’s stock trades due to their market influence.
What controversies is Nancy Pelosi known for?
Pelosi has faced controversies over stock trading, political decisions, and tensions with Donald Trump, including the moment she famously ripped his State of the Union speech.
What stocks does Nancy Pelosi own?
While specific holdings change over time, reports have linked her family to tech stocks like Apple, Google, and Nvidia, among others.
What is Nancy Pelosi’s net worth?
Nancy Pelosi’s estimated net worth is around $120 million, largely from her husband’s investments and real estate assets.
