Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), 82, stated on Thursday that she will not be running for re-election as the House’s senior Democrat but will continue in office.
Pelosi, who rose to prominence as a Democratic leader during the administration of George W. Bush made her announcement from the Floor of the house in an address that touched on democracy, diversity, and elections, and was received with cheers from Democrats throughout. She insisted on continuing to represent the citizens of San Francisco.
“I believe the time has arrived for a new generation to head the Democratic caucus, which I sincerely respect,” Pelosi said.
Pelosi also mentioned her husband Paul briefly, who was hospitalized when an attacker stormed into their San Francisco residence and assaulted him with a hammer. David DePape, the suspect, has pled not guilty, and pals claim he has a history of substance misuse, mental instability, and belief in conspiracy theories.
President Joe Biden issued a statement shortly after the news, describing her as one of the most “significant” speakers in history.
“Nancy Pelosi is for the people first, last, and always. Nancy, Paul, and their family are among Jill and my closest friends. We owe her a deep debt of appreciation as a nation for her service, patriotism, and, beyond all else, her utter dignity,” he remarked.
Pelosi’s proposal comes after Democrats performed better than predicted in the 2022 midterm elections. Though pre-election poll data and opinion pieces predicted a “red wave” would push Republicans into power over both chambers of Congress, Dems. were able to retain the Senate’s control across several high-profile Senate races, and Republicans are expected to win just a thin majority in the House — enough to depose Pelosi as speaker.
