Rep. Nydia Velázquez announced on Thursday that she would not seek re-election in 2026, bringing an end to her historic 16-term career in Congress. The longtime representative for parts of Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Queens has been a driving force behind the city's progressive movement.
With over three decades of service, Velázquez has left an indelible mark on the nation's capital, making history as the first Puerto Rican woman elected to Congress. Her impact extends far beyond her impressive tenure in office, however. The congresswoman has been a steadfast advocate for the rights of women, veterans, immigrants, and marginalized communities.
Throughout her career, Velázquez has forged strong alliances with fellow Democrats, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and city council members Lincoln Restler, Alexa Avilés, and Sandy Nurse. Her endorsement carries significant weight, given her reputation as a tireless champion of progressive causes.
As Governor Kathy Hochul noted in a statement, Velázquez is a "trailblazer whose leadership has opened doors for generations." Hochul praised Velázquez's unwavering commitment to delivering meaningful progress for underrepresented groups. The governor also shared a personal anecdote about their working relationship in Congress, highlighting the lasting impact of their partnership.
Velázquez's legacy extends beyond her policy achievements. She has been an unshakeable voice on issues related to immigration and Puerto Rico's right to self-determination. Her unwavering stance on these matters has earned her a reputation as a fierce advocate for those often overlooked by policymakers.
As Velázquez prepares to leave office, she remains committed to continuing her fight for social justice. In a statement, she expressed gratitude to her constituents, who have supported her throughout her remarkable career. While the next chapter of her life is unclear, one thing is certain: Nydia Velázquez will always be remembered as a champion of progressive values and a trailblazer in American politics.
With over three decades of service, Velázquez has left an indelible mark on the nation's capital, making history as the first Puerto Rican woman elected to Congress. Her impact extends far beyond her impressive tenure in office, however. The congresswoman has been a steadfast advocate for the rights of women, veterans, immigrants, and marginalized communities.
Throughout her career, Velázquez has forged strong alliances with fellow Democrats, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and city council members Lincoln Restler, Alexa Avilés, and Sandy Nurse. Her endorsement carries significant weight, given her reputation as a tireless champion of progressive causes.
As Governor Kathy Hochul noted in a statement, Velázquez is a "trailblazer whose leadership has opened doors for generations." Hochul praised Velázquez's unwavering commitment to delivering meaningful progress for underrepresented groups. The governor also shared a personal anecdote about their working relationship in Congress, highlighting the lasting impact of their partnership.
Velázquez's legacy extends beyond her policy achievements. She has been an unshakeable voice on issues related to immigration and Puerto Rico's right to self-determination. Her unwavering stance on these matters has earned her a reputation as a fierce advocate for those often overlooked by policymakers.
As Velázquez prepares to leave office, she remains committed to continuing her fight for social justice. In a statement, she expressed gratitude to her constituents, who have supported her throughout her remarkable career. While the next chapter of her life is unclear, one thing is certain: Nydia Velázquez will always be remembered as a champion of progressive values and a trailblazer in American politics.
Can you believe she's not seeking re-election? 16 terms is crazy! I mean, we all love her for the work she does, but it's time for someone else to bring their own energy to the table 
. It's gonna be weird watching her leave the House though 
. She's been such a driving force behind the progressive movement in NYC and beyond. Her endorsement still means everything, btw 
. I remember hearing stories about her working with Hochul back in Congress... those two are like besties 
. Anyway, it's sad to see this chapter close, but we know Nydia's gonna keep fighting for what she believes in 
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. She's been a driving force behind the city's progressive movement for so long, it's hard to imagine another champion coming along in 2026 
. And what about the cost of keeping all those allies and friends on board? It's like they're buying votes with their endorsements 
... I just hope we don't lose sight of what's really important when these powerful leaders start making their next moves 
she's given it her all for 16 years and what can we really say about that? she's been a driving force behind the progressive movement, but is that something to be celebrated or criticized? im not sure... maybe its just me, but i think were moving too fast on people like nydia velazquez who have dedicated their lives to making a difference 
. shes more than just a politician, shes a icon and a symbol of hope for many marginalized communities 
I'm so sad to hear that Rep. Nydia Velázquez won't be seeking re-election! 16 terms in Congress is crazy 
She's had such an impact on the nation, especially for women, veterans, and immigrants. I love how she's been a driving force behind NYC's progressive movement 
plus, can you imagine what will happen without her tireless advocacy on issues like immigration and Puerto Rico's rights? 
That's insane! She's definitely left an amazing mark on the nation's capital, and I'm so grateful for her tireless advocacy for women, veterans, immigrants, and marginalized communities. 
OMG u guys she left congress like after 16 yrs can u even imagine? 
she paved the way for all us future reps and i'm forever grateful 
it's gonna be hard to find someone like her with the same level of dedication & passion 
her commitment to social justice and progressive causes has been a beacon of hope for so many people, especially marginalized communities 
but I know she'll keep pushing forward from wherever life takes her 
she's a total icon for the progressive movement, and it's so cool that she's paving the way for other women and underrepresented groups in politics. 
I'm gonna miss seeing Rep. Nydia Velázquez's face around Capitol Hill! She's truly a legend, leaving an incredible mark on the nation's capital after 16 terms 
. Nydia Velázquez has been a rock for the city's progressive movement and it's amazing to see all these other reps she's worked with praising her 
. She's not just leaving us as a rep, she's leaving behind a legacy of hope and inclusivity that will live on forever 
I don't think we'll ever see another leader like her in politics again 
. What I love about her though is how she's used her platform to uplift others, especially those from marginalized communities. That takes a ton of courage and heart.