Nydia Velázquez

Her career is notable for its trailblazing nature and her leadership roles. In addition to her historic election, she previously chaired the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, advocating for the interests of the Latino community. Throughout her tenure, she has been a prominent voice on issues affecting her constituents, including small business and economic development.

Recently, Representative Velázquez has been in the news after announcing she will not seek reelection in 2026. Multiple news outlets reported her decision to retire following the conclusion of her current term, which will mark the end of a 34-year congressional career. This announcement has drawn significant attention due to her status as a long-standing and influential figure in New York politics.

Even while announcing her upcoming retirement, she remains active in her official duties. Recent headlines also noted her involvement in legislative efforts, such as co-leading a group of House Democrats in urging protections for small businesses, demonstrating her continued engagement in policy matters during her final term.