Nancy Pelosi, the longtime Democratic leader in the US House of Representatives, has announced her retirement from Congress, concluding a career defined by pivotal legislative achievements and a highly publicized feud with former President Donald Trump, several instances of which were captured on video.
In a video message released recently, Pelosi stated that she will not seek re-election when her current term ends in January 2027. At 85 years old, she reflected on her decades of service, highlighting the historical progress made and encouraging continued engagement in democratic processes. Pelosi, who became the first woman to serve as Speaker of the House, represented San Francisco since 1987 and held leadership roles from 2003 to 2023, shaping key policies and political battles.
One of the most memorable aspects of her tenure was her contentious relationship with Donald Trump during his presidency. Key moments of their feud were documented on camera, including Pelosi ripping up a copy of Trump’s State of the Union address behind his back during a joint session of Congress. This act symbolized her defiance and the deep political divisions between them, often playing out in public view and reflecting the polarized climate of American politics.
Another incident occurred in the Oval Office, where Pelosi and Trump engaged in a heated exchange in front of reporters, with Pelosi accusing him of a “cover-up” related to impeachment inquiries. Additionally, in documentary footage, she labeled Trump a “domestic enemy,” emphasizing the severity of their conflicts and her role in opposing his agenda. These filmed encounters not only personalized their rivalry but also underscored the ideological clashes that defined Trump’s administration.
Pelosi’s leadership was instrumental in advancing major Democratic policies, such as the Affordable Care Act under Barack Obama and infrastructure and climate bills under Joe Biden. She also led two impeachment efforts against Trump—first in 2019 over his dealings with Ukraine and again in 2021 for inciting the Capitol riot—though both resulted in acquittals by the Senate. These actions highlighted her strategic prowess and commitment to holding power accountable, even in the face of political setbacks.
In response to her retirement announcement, Trump commented from the Oval Office, calling Pelosi an “evil woman” and expressing satisfaction with her departure, which he viewed as beneficial for the country. This reaction underscores the enduring animosity that characterized their interactions and the polarized nature of US politics during that era, with both figures remaining central to national debates over governance and partisanship.
Beyond the Trump feud, Pelosi’s legacy includes navigating complex legislative landscapes, such as passing COVID-19 relief packages and protecting gay marriage rights, often with slim majorities. After stepping down as Speaker, she continued to influence politics, recently aiding in California’s redistricting efforts to support Democratic candidates in future elections. Her ability to mobilize party resources and maintain cohesion among diverse factions cemented her status as a transformative figure in modern American history.
As Pelosi prepares to leave Congress, her retirement marks a significant transition for the Democratic Party, with successors like Hakeem Jeffries taking on leadership roles. Her career, spanning over three decades, leaves a lasting impact on American governance, remembered for both her legislative prowess and the dramatic, filmed confrontations that captured the nation’s attention and illustrated the high stakes of political power.