Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, the barrier-breaking first woman to hold the Speaker’s gavel and one of the most powerful figures in modern American politics, officially announced Thursday that she will not seek re-election to the U.S. House of Representatives.

The announcement, delivered in a video address to her constituents, brings a close to a nearly four-decade career representing San Francisco. While speculation had been mounting for weeks, Mrs. Pelosi’s decision marks the definitive end of an era in Congress.

“I will not be seeking re-election to Congress,” Pelosi said in her video, which was filled with images showcasing her decades of accomplishments. The 85-year-old Democrat confirmed she will serve out her final year in office, and used the address to issue a call to action.

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