In a final love letter to San Francisco, Rep. Nancy Pelosi, who made history as the nation’s first female speaker of the House and twice served in that top job, said Thursday she will not seek re-election in 2026. INTRODUCTION The lights in the Capitol don’t flicker often, but when they do, it means a chapter is closing. On a cool November morning, Nancy Pelosi , the most powerful woman in congressional history, announced she won’t seek reelection. No drama, no tears—just the