Pelosi Bids Farewell as California Democrats Celebrate Her Legacy

The outgoing House Speaker receives a rousing tribute at the state party's annual convention, with Democrats looking to the future.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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In a celebratory atmosphere, California Democrats gathered for their annual convention, which doubled as a farewell tribute to outgoing House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Pelosi, who is set to conclude her nearly four-decade tenure in Congress at the end of this term, was hailed as a transformative leader within the party. The event showcased her remarkable career trajectory and her lasting impact on the Democratic Party, both in California and nationally.

Why it matters

Pelosi's retirement marks the end of an era, as she has been a dominant figure in the Democratic Party for decades. Her departure opens the door for a new generation of leaders to emerge, and the convention provided a platform for prominent California Democrats to discuss the party's future direction.

The details

The convention featured imagery and mementos celebrating Pelosi's career, including tote bags bearing her likeness and reminders of her advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community. Despite the outpouring of accolades, Pelosi remained focused on the future, expressing confidence that Democrats would regain control of the House in November and predicting that her chosen successor, Hakeem Jeffries, would become the next Speaker.

  • Pelosi announced her retirement late last year.
  • The California Democratic Party convention took place over the weekend.

The players

Nancy Pelosi

The outgoing House Speaker, who is set to conclude her nearly four-decade tenure in Congress at the end of this term.

Hakeem Jeffries

Pelosi's chosen successor, who she predicts will become the next Speaker of the House.

Adam Schiff

A longtime political ally of Pelosi, who described her as "almost allergic to recognition" and noted her consistent prioritization of the party's forward momentum.

Dolores Huerta

A veteran labor leader who shared anecdotes and reflections on Pelosi's leadership style.

Scott Wiener

A state senator who secured the state party's endorsement during the convention to succeed Pelosi.

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What they’re saying

“We don't agonize, we organize.”

— Nancy Pelosi, Outgoing House Speaker

“Pelosi is almost allergic to recognition, noting her consistent prioritization of the party's forward momentum.”

— Adam Schiff, Longtime political ally of Pelosi

“When in doubt, shoot – and always be in doubt.”

— Nancy Pelosi, Outgoing House Speaker

“Know your power.”

— Nancy Pelosi, Outgoing House Speaker

“Hope is our resistance, and our resistance gives us hope.”

— Nancy Pelosi, Outgoing House Speaker

What’s next

Pelosi has yet to publicly indicate her preference for who should succeed her as the next House Speaker.

The takeaway

Pelosi's retirement marks the end of an era, but her legacy as a transformative leader within the Democratic Party will continue to shape the party's future direction. The convention highlighted the party's focus on grassroots mobilization and the importance of maintaining a progressive agenda, even in the face of political challenges.