Neal Statement on Speaker Pelosi Retirement

WASHINGTON, DC— Ways and Means Ranking Member Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement after Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) announced she would not seek reelection in 2026, capping a historic career in the House that spans nearly 40 years:

“Nobody has done it like Speaker Nancy Pelosi. What started in California politics decades ago is a public service career that will end as one of the most distinguished America has ever known. Speaker Pelosi will be remembered as a titan of this institution and the greatest Speaker of all time with an unmatched ability to unify her caucus, always keeping a tight eye on the numbers. Americans are better off for her leadership and her fight for the people, our democracy, and the rule of law.

“I’ve had the distinct pleasure of working with Speaker Pelosi for more than three decades. During her time as Speaker and mine as Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, we worked tirelessly to rescue our economy from the brink amidst a global pandemic, made once-in-a-generation investments in lower health care and the jobs of tomorrow, and brokered the largest trade deal in history. Every step of the way, our success has been grounded in her tenacity, fierce leadership, and the unmistakable spirit of San Francisco. 

“Speaker Pelosi’s strength has always been rooted in her devotion to her faith, her family, and her values—a vision of progress For The Children and building a country that works for every family. The House of Representatives and the country are stronger because of her patriotism, her example, and her unwavering belief in America’s promise. It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve alongside her historic career, and I wish my dear friend, Speaker Pelosi, and her beloved family every happiness in this well-deserved next chapter.”

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