On Tuesday, Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser announced that she will not seek re-election, ending her decade-long leadership of the city.

“With a grateful heart, I am announcing that I will not seek a fourth term,” Bowser said.

She then described serving the residents of the district as an "immense privilege," highlighting achievements in education, housing, and government reform during her terms. 

“For 10 years, you and I have worked together on an ambitious agenda to restore faith in our government and ensure that every D.C. resident gets the fair shot they deserve,” she said in her announcement.

Bowser went on to discuss her receipts: from expanding school enrollment and raising graduation rates, to historic investments in affordable housing, and shepherding constituents through a global pandemic. Bowser also praised the city’s resilience in what was characterized as federal overreach, after the government deployed the National Guard — a controversial decision that was declared “unlawful” in court earlier this month. 

“Throughout this remarkable journey, I’ve been honored to serve with countless dedicated city executives and extraordinary frontline workers, the incredible people who keep D.C. thriving every single day for their bold vision, big ideas, personal sacrifices and relentless pursuit of excellence in service to the city. I am deeply grateful,” Bowser said.

She’ll be stepping down just before a major project is scheduled for completion in 2030: the Washington Commanders' new stadium at the old RFK Stadium site. It was Bowser who led the deal and worked hard for the football team’s return to the district.

As for who will take the reins as D.C.’s next mayor? It’s anyone’s guess…though Kenyan McDuffie and Janeese Lewis George are apparently up for the challenge. 

Bowser’s third and final term as mayor will end in January 2027. Listen to her full statement below: