Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi announced she will not seek reelection to Congress, ending a nearly 40-year career representing San Francisco and making history as the first woman to serve as Speaker of the House.

In a video message, Pelosi thanked her constituents and urged them to “know your power” and continue leading with democratic ideals.

Her decision comes as a new generation of leaders emerges within the Democratic Party ahead of next year’s elections.

Pelosi, 85, leaves behind a legacy that includes major legislative achievements like the Affordable Care Act and decades of global influence, the AP has reported.

Her departure follows health challenges and personal hardships, including her husband’s 2022 assault, marking the close of one of the most powerful careers in American politics.