Democratic Rep. Jerry Nadler won't seek reelection in 2026
Longtime New York Democratic Rep. Jerry Nadler announced Tuesday that he will not seek reelection next year.
"For more than 32 years, I have had the honor of serving the people of New York in the United States Congress. Today, I am announcing that I will not be seeking re-election next year and that this term in Congress will be my last," Nadler said in a statement. "This decision has not been easy. But I know in my heart it is the right one and that it is the right time to pass the torch to a new generation."
The decision was first reported by the New York Times.
Nadler, who is 78 years old, told the Times that former President Joe Biden's decision to drop out of the 2024 presidential election factored into his decision.
"Watching the Biden thing really said something about the necessity for generational change in the party, and I think I want to respect that," Nadler told the New York Times.
Nadler -- who represents a large portion of Manhattan -- told the Times that a younger successor "can maybe do better, can maybe help us more."
He previously served as chair and ranking member of the House Judiciary Committee. He was at the center of the impeachment inquiries into Donald Trump -- something he referenced as a point of pride during his career.
"I look back with great pride on all that I've been able to accomplish in Congress. As Chair of the House Judiciary Committee from 2019 through 2022, I'm grateful I had the opportunity to help lead our party's efforts to preserve the rule of law and to provide for a more just society that respects the civil rights and civil liberties of all Americans. That leadership includes impeaching Donald Trump twice -- first for abuse of power and obstruction of justice and second for inciting an insurrection against the American people," Nadler said in his statement.
The New York Democrat stepped down from his leadership role on the House Judiciary Committee last year.
House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries applauded Nadler's efforts in the House, calling him a mentor and "relentless fighter for justice, civil rights and liberties and the fundamental promise of equality for all."
Jeffries, who also represents New York, called Nadler a "tremendous champion" for the state's residents, detailing his support for his district after 9/11.
"Jerry's years of leadership have earned him a spot among our nation's greatest public servants. He will be deeply missed by the House Democratic Caucus next term," Jeffries said in a statement.
Nadler's seat, which will be up for grabs, is expected to remain Democratic in the 2026 midterm elections.
Nadler said that while he doesn't know what is next for him after his term ends, he plans to "stay fully engaged in the community that is my home and in the causes that I've championed throughout my life."
"My plans for the next sixteen months, however, are clear. I will continue to give everything I have to defend our democracy, protect our institutions, and fight for the values that as Americans and New Yorkers we share," he wrote in his statement.
ABC News' Sarah Beth Hensley contributed to this report.
