After a formidable tenure spanning more than three decades in the House of Representatives, Rep. Nydia Velázquez has declared that she will not seek re-election in 2026. A pioneering figure as the first Puerto Rican woman to be elected to Congress, Velázquez has been an unwavering voice for parts of Brooklyn and Queens. Her impending retirement was reported by NY1 and confirmed in a heartfelt post on her social media channels.
In her announcement Velázquez mentioned, "For more than three decades, I have had the privilege of a lifetime serving the people of New York City in the United States Congress." Her districts, enveloping neighborhoods like Long Island City, Astoria, Ridgewood, Bushwick, Williamsburg, and East New York have witnessed significant transformations under her representation. Velázquez stated, "This was not an easy decision, but I believe that the time is right for me to move on and for a new generation of leaders to step forward," according to NY1.
Distinguished as the first Latina to chair a full committee, Velázquez's legacy includes the inception of the Women-Owned Small Business contracting program, which became law in 2001. Throughout her career, she has been recognized as a key player in New York City's progressive political environment, endorsing various rising Democrats like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and championing issues related to immigration, small businesses, and veterans' rights. Additionally, Velázquez played a significant role during the Obama administration, notably in the confirmation of Justice Sonia Sotomayor to the U.S. Supreme Court, as noted by Gothamist.
Velázquez's impact has not gone unnoticed, with tributes pouring in from various quarters, including New York Governor Kathy Hochul, who referred to Velázquez as a "trailblazer whose leadership has opened doors for generations" of New Yorkers. Her endorsement in the mayoral race for Zohran Mamdani, further underscores her influence on the city's political landscape. "Your grace and fight showed us what real leadership looks like. From the bottom of my heart, thank you La Luchadora," Mamdani exclaimed on social media, a sentiment echoed by many who have admired Velázquez's dedication, according to statements obtained by Gothamist.
Although ready to step down from her congressional role, Velázquez assures her supporters that her work is far from over. "I do not yet know what the next chapter holds, but I know I will continue fighting for the city I love and for an end to Puerto Rico’s colonial status," Velázquez said in a statement obtained by Gothamist.
