Democrat Nancy Pelosi announces retirement from US Congress following decades-long career

The former House Speaker announced her retirement on Thursday, with the congresswoman set to retire at the end of her current term.

The longtime California Democrat is known for having one of the most renowned legislative careers in US history.

The announcement follows a 20-term congressional career that saw the congresswoman become a force to reckon with on Capitol Hill.

A central figure when it came to key legislation passed under both Barack Obama and Joe Biden’s presidencies, Pelosi has been an outspoken critic of Donald Trump since he was first elected to power.

Speaking in a video, Pelosi said: "I want you, my fellow San Franciscans, to be the first to know.

"I will not be seeking reelection to Congress. With a grateful heart, I look forward to my final year of service as your proud representative."

The politician hit headlines in 2022 after her husband, Paul Pelosi, suffered serious injuries after an intruder entered their home and attacked him with a hammer.

The suspect, later named as David DePape, was convicted of the vicious and violent attack, with evidence later revealing he had become obsessed with far-right conspiracy theories.

Such theories were regularly promoted by figures aligned with Trump and MAGA Republicans, including the 2020 stolen election conspiracy alongside support for the January 6 insurrection.

News of her retirement comes days after Pelosi branded Trump a "vile creature," going on to describe the US President as the "worst thing on the face of the Earth".

The politicians 40-year career will come to an end in January 2027, with a rare Democrat seat becoming available in San Francisco.

Pelosi’s announcement came days after Californians approved Proposition 50 - a redistricting proposal put forward by Gavin Newsom intended to counter Trump’s efforts to shore up House seats in Texas in next year’s midterm elections.