History of Nancy Pelosi in Timeline
Nancy Pelosi is a prominent American politician, most notably serving as the 52nd Speaker of the House, twice holding the position. She was the first woman to become Speaker and lead a major party in Congress. Representing California's 11th district since 1987, Pelosi led House Democrats from 2003-2023, becoming a significant figure in American politics and a trailblazer for women in leadership.
1915: Killing of Armenians by Ottoman Turks
In 1915, The killing of Armenians by Ottoman Turks, sparked warnings from President Bush and fierce criticism from Turkey
March 26, 1940: Nancy Pelosi's Birth
On March 26, 1940, Nancy Patricia Pelosi (née D'Alesandro) was born. She later became the 52nd speaker of the United States House of Representatives.
1962: Graduation from Trinity College
In 1962, Nancy Pelosi graduated from Trinity College in Washington. D.C.
September 7, 1963: Nancy D'Alesandro Marries Paul Francis Pelosi
On September 7, 1963, Nancy D'Alesandro married Paul Francis Pelosi in Baltimore at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen.
1964: Civil Rights Act of 1964
Pelosi supports the Equality Act, a bill that would expand the federal Civil Rights Act of 1964 to ban discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
1969: Pelosi Moves to San Francisco
In 1969, Nancy and Paul Pelosi moved to San Francisco.
1974: Democrats achieve significant House gains
In 1974, the Democratic Party experienced its largest gain in the House of Representatives since the post-Watergate elections.
1974: Jackson-Vanik Amendment to the Trade Act of 1974
Pelosi's view was that Congress should oppose the annual presidential waiver for China under the Jackson-Vanik Amendment, an amendment to the Trade Act of 1974.
1976: Elected as Democratic National Committee Member
In 1976, Nancy Pelosi was elected as a Democratic National Committee member from California, holding the position until 1996.
February 1, 1987: Death of Sala Burton
On February 1, 1987, Sala Burton died, paving the way for Nancy Pelosi to run for and win the special election to succeed her in Congress.
February 1987: Pelosi Wins Democratic Primary
In February 1987, Nancy Pelosi defeated San Francisco Supervisor Harry Britt in the Democratic primary with 36 percent of the vote to his 32 percent.
April 7, 1987: Pelosi Won Special Election
On April 7, 1987, Nancy Pelosi won the special election to succeed Sala Burton, after Burton's death.
March 1988: Voted for Civil Rights Restoration Act
In March 1988, Nancy Pelosi voted for the Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987 and to override President Ronald Reagan's veto.
1988: Pelosi Wins Election in California's 5th Congressional District
In 1988, Pelosi won the election in California's 5th congressional district with 76 percent of the vote.
1989: Pelosi Seeks Harsher Position Toward China After Tiananmen Square Protests
After the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests, Pelosi sought to take a harsher position toward China than President George H.W. Bush, criticizing his China policy.
1990: Pelosi Wins Election in California's 5th Congressional District Again
In 1990, Pelosi won the election in California's 5th congressional district with 77 percent of the vote.
1991: Pelosi Opposes Gulf War Intervention
In 1991, Pelosi opposed U.S. intervention in the Gulf War.
1991: Pelosi Unfurls Banner in Tiananmen Square
In 1991, as part of a Congressional delegation, Pelosi unfurled a banner in Tiananmen Square, leading to a confrontation with Chinese police.
1992: Pelosi Runs in California's 8th Congressional District
In 1992, after redistricting, Pelosi ran in California's 8th congressional district, which now covered the San Francisco area.
1994: Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act
In 1994, Nancy Pelosi helped shape the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act, working with Senator Dianne Feinstein and Congressman Chuck Schumer, which became law.
1995: Voted Against Balanced Budget Amendment
In 1995, Pelosi voted against the Balanced Budget Proposed Constitutional Amendment, which passed the House but failed in the Senate.
1995: Pelosi Votes in Favor of Jerusalem Embassy Act
In 1995, Pelosi voted in favor of the Jerusalem Embassy Act, urging the relocation of the American embassy in Israel to Jerusalem.
1996: Pelosi votes against Defense of Marriage Act
In 1996, Pelosi voted against the Defense of Marriage Act.
1998: Voted in Favor of Abortion Funding Amendment
In 1998, Pelosi voted in favor of the Abortion Funding Amendment, which would have allowed the use of district funds to promote abortion-related activities but would have prohibited the use of federal funds.
1999: Co-sponsored legislation omitting American Samoa from minimum wage increase
As early as 1999, Pelosi co-sponsored legislation that omitted American Samoa from a raise in the minimum wage, before Del Monte's acquisition of StarKist Tuna in 2002.
1999: Voted Against Displaying Ten Commandments in Public Buildings
In 1999, Pelosi voted against displaying the Ten Commandments in public buildings, including schools.
1999: Pelosi Calls on Clinton and Gore to Address 1989 Protests with Chinese Premier
In 1999, ahead of Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji's visit to the U.S., Pelosi called on President Clinton and Vice President Gore to ask Zhu to recognize the 1989 protests as a pro-democracy effort.
2000: Alexandra Pelosi Covers Republican Campaigns
In 2000, Alexandra Pelosi, Nancy Pelosi's daughter, covered the Republican presidential campaigns and made a film about the experience.
2000: Top Contributor to Congressional Campaigns
In 2000, Pelosi was the top contributor among members of Congress to other congressional campaigns.
2001: Elected House Minority Whip
In 2001, Nancy Pelosi was elected the House minority whip, becoming the first woman in U.S. history to hold that post.
2001: Pelosi votes in favor of USA Patriot Act
In 2001, Pelosi voted in favor of the USA Patriot Act.
2001: CIA Allegations of Misleading Congress
In 2001, allegations arose that the CIA had been misleading congress for a number of years.
November 15, 2002: Defeated Ford for House Democratic Caucus Leader
On November 15, 2002, Nancy Pelosi defeated Harold Ford Jr. in a closed-door vote of caucus members to become the House Democratic Caucus leader.
November 2002: Elected House Minority Leader
In November 2002, Nancy Pelosi was elected to replace Dick Gephardt as House minority leader, becoming the first woman to lead a major party in either chamber of Congress.
2002: Del Monte's acquisition of StarKist Tuna
In 2002 Del Monte acquired StarKist Tuna.
2002: Pelosi Opposes Iraq Resolution
In 2002, Pelosi opposed the Iraq Resolution authorizing President George W. Bush to use military force against Iraq, emphasizing the need for diplomatic remedies and respect for the United Nations.
2002: Top Contributor to Congressional Campaigns
In 2002, Pelosi was the top contributor among members of Congress to other congressional campaigns.
2002: Briefed on Enhanced Interrogation Techniques
In 2002, as the ranking member of the House Intelligence Committee, Pelosi was briefed on the use of "enhanced interrogation techniques," including waterboarding, for a captured terrorist, Abu Zubaydah. After the briefing in 2002, Pelosi stated that she was assured by lawyers from the CIA and the Department of Justice that the methods were legal.
2003: Pelosi Raises Funds
From 2003, Pelosi raised more than $400 million in campaign funds.
2003: Pelosi leaves Congressional Progressive Caucus
In 2003, Pelosi left the Congressional Progressive Caucus after being elected House minority leader. She is still widely considered a liberal.
2003: Voted Against Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act
In 2003, Pelosi voted against the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act and earlier attempts at similar bans.
2003: Supported Harman's Objections to Interrogation Techniques
In early 2003, Pelosi concurred with objections raised by Democratic colleague Jane Harman in a letter to the CIA regarding enhanced interrogation techniques.
2004: Pelosi votes against Federal Marriage Amendment
In 2004, Pelosi voted against the proposed Federal Marriage Amendment, which would define marriage as between one man and one woman.
2005: Pelosi votes against reauthorization of Patriot Act provisions
In 2005, Pelosi voted against reauthorization of certain provisions of the USA Patriot Act.
November 16, 2006: Nominated for Speaker of the House
On November 16, 2006, the Democratic caucus unanimously nominated Nancy Pelosi for Speaker of the House after the Democrats gained a majority in the House.
2006: Pelosi votes against Secure Fence Act
In 2006, Pelosi voted against the Secure Fence Act.
2006: Pelosi votes against Federal Marriage Amendment
In 2006, Pelosi voted against the proposed Federal Marriage Amendment.
2006: Pelosi ranked third largest fundraiser for Democratic Party
In 2006, Pelosi was the Democratic Party's third-largest fundraiser, behind Bill and Hillary Clinton.
2006: Pelosi on Palestinian Authority Elections
In 2006, prior to the Palestinian Authority elections, Pelosi voted for a Congressional initiative that disapproved of participation in the elections by Hamas and other organizations defined as terrorist.
January 4, 2007: Pelosi Elected Speaker of the House
On January 4, 2007, Nancy Pelosi was elected Speaker of the House, defeating Republican John Boehner with a vote of 233 to 202.
January 5, 2007: Pelosi and Reid Condemn Bush's Troop Increase Plan
On January 5, 2007, Nancy Pelosi, as Speaker of the House, and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid condemned President Bush's plan to increase troop levels in Iraq, reacting to suggestions from Bush's confidants. They sent Bush a letter expressing their disapproval of the plan.
January 12, 2007: Resolution on Military Force Against Iran Introduced
On January 12, 2007, Congressman Walter B. Jones introduced a resolution requiring presidential consultation with Congress before initiating military force against Iran, absent a direct attack.
February 15, 2007: Pelosi on Diplomatic Resolution with Iran
On February 15, 2007, Pelosi said that Bush consistently said he supports a diplomatic resolution to differences with Iran "and I take him at his word". At the same time, she said, "I do believe that Congress should assert itself, though, and make it very clear that there is no previous authority for the president, any president, to go into Iran".
March 13, 2007: Resolution on Iran Removed from Spending Bill
On March 13, 2007, Pelosi removed the resolution requiring congressional approval for military action against Iran from a military spending bill.
April 2007: Pelosi Visits Syria
In April 2007, Pelosi visited Syria, meeting with Syrian leaders despite President Bush's efforts to isolate Syria, and conveyed a message for peace from Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert.
May 2007: Pelosi Scolds Colombian President Álvaro Uribe
In May 2007, Nancy Pelosi publicly scolded Colombian president Álvaro Uribe during his state visit to America, expressing concerns about links between paramilitary groups and Colombian government officials and coming out against the Colombian free-trade agreement.
October 2007: Pelosi Pledges Vote on Armenian Genocide Resolution
In mid-October 2007, Pelosi pledged to bring a measure to a vote that labeled the 1915 killing of Armenians by Ottoman Turks as genocide, despite warnings from President Bush and criticism from Turkey. She later agreed to set the matter aside.
2007: Christine Pelosi Publishes Book
In 2007, Christine Pelosi, Nancy Pelosi's daughter, published a book titled "Campaign Boot Camp: Basic Training for Future Leaders."
2007: Pelosi Receives NIAF Special Achievement Award
In 2007, Pelosi received the NIAF Special Achievement Award for Public Advocacy and remains involved in the foundation.
2007: Pelosi's Office Claims Protest of Interrogation Techniques
In 2007, Pelosi's office stated that she had protested the use of enhanced interrogation techniques at the time they were being used.
2007: Spearheaded Fair Minimum Wage Act
In 2007, as Speaker of the House, Pelosi spearheaded the Fair Minimum Wage Act, which raised the minimum wage in the United States and certain territories.
September 2008: Pelosi Hosts Reception with Israeli Knesset Speaker
In September 2008, Pelosi hosted a reception in Washington with Israeli Speaker of the Knesset Dalia Itzik, toasting the "strong friendship" between Israel and the United States.
2008: Pelosi welcomes California Supreme Court decision on same-sex marriage
In 2008, Pelosi released a statement welcoming the "historic decision" when the Supreme Court of California overturned the state's ban on marriage between same-sex couples. She also voiced opposition to California Proposition 8.
2008: Pelosi Opposes Cuba Embargo
In 2008, Pelosi stated her opposition to the embargo on Cuba, advocating for the removal of travel bans and increased people-to-people exchanges.
2008: Rebuked by Archbishop Wuerl for Abortion Comments
In 2008, Pelosi was rebuked by Archbishop Donald Wuerl of Washington, D.C., for being "incorrect" in comments she made on Meet the Press concerning Church teaching on abortion and when human life begins.
2008: Pelosi Criticizes China's Handling of Unrest in Tibet
In 2008, after meeting with the Dalai Lama, Pelosi criticized China for its handling of unrest in Tibet and called on freedom-loving people to denounce China's human rights abuses.
January 25, 2009: Supported Family Planning to Reduce Costs
In a January 25, 2009 interview, Pelosi stated that one of the reasons she supported family planning services was that they would "reduce costs to states and to the federal government."
February 2009: Met with Archbishop and Pope Benedict XVI
In February 2009, Pelosi met with her bishop, Archbishop George Hugh Niederauer of San Francisco, and with Pope Benedict XVI regarding the controversy surrounding her comments on abortion and Church teaching.
March 2009: Judicial Watch Obtains Emails Regarding Pelosi's Travel Requests
In March 2009, Judicial Watch obtained emails showing Pelosi's staff requested specific aircraft, including a Boeing 757, for taxpayer-funded travel. Pelosi stated the policy was initiated by President Bush due to post-9/11 security concerns and was initially provided for the previous Speaker Dennis Hastert.
April 2009: Pelosi's Press Conference on Interrogation Briefings
In an April 2009 press conference, Pelosi stated that during briefings, she was not told that waterboarding or other enhanced interrogation techniques were used, but rather that the Office of Legislative Counsel had opinions that they could be used.
June 26, 2009: Democratic Lawmakers Allege CIA Misled Congress
On June 26, 2009, several Democratic lawmakers in the House signed a letter alleging that CIA Director Leon Panetta asserted that the CIA misled Congress for a "number of years" spanning back to 2001.
December 2009: House Majority
In November and December 2009, As Speaker, she has worked with a majority as large as 81 seats in the House of Representatives.
2009: Pelosi's Net Worth Estimated at $58 Million
In 2009, OpenSecrets estimated Pelosi's net worth at $58 million, making her the 13th-wealthiest member of Congress.
January 2010: Pelosi Spearheads Passage of the Affordable Care Act
In January 2010, after Republican Scott Brown won Ted Kennedy's former Senate seat, Nancy Pelosi spearheaded the passage of the Affordable Care Act, dismissing Obama's concerns and scaled-back ideas. She rallied her caucus, leading to the bill's passage in the House with a vote of 219-212.
March 2010: Pelosi Assessed as a Powerful Woman
In March 2010, analysts assessed Nancy Pelosi as possibly the most powerful woman in U.S. history and among the most powerful speakers of the previous 100 years.
November 17, 2010: Pelosi Elected House Minority Leader
On November 17, 2010, following the Democrats' loss of the House majority in the 2010 elections, Nancy Pelosi was elected House Minority Leader after defeating Representative Heath Shuler in a caucus vote of 150-43.
2010: Pelosi Runs in California's 12th Congressional District
After redistricting from the 2010 census, Pelosi ran in California's 12th congressional district.
2010: Pelosi Backs Bill Naming China a Currency Manipulator
In 2010, Pelosi backed a bill naming China a currency manipulator, which would appease exporters.
2010: Instrumental in Passing Affordable Care Act
In 2010, Pelosi was instrumental in passing the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. She convinced Obama to continue pushing for healthcare reform after a potentially fatal defeat.
November 14, 2012: Pelosi Announces Intention to Remain Democratic Leader
On November 14, 2012, Nancy Pelosi announced her intention to remain the Democratic leader in the House of Representatives.
2012: Pelosi's Net Worth at $26.4 Million
Business Insider reported that Pelosi's net worth was $26.4 million in 2012 and made her the 13th-richest member of Congress.
2012: Received Low Ratings from Gun Rights Groups
In 2012, Pelosi received a 0% rating from Gun Owners of America and a 7% rating from the National Rifle Association for her stances on gun control.
2012: Pelosi discusses position on LGBT rights
In 2012, Pelosi said her position on LGBT rights such as same-sex marriage grows from and reflects her Catholic faith. She said her religion compels her to be against discrimination of any kind.
2012: Republicans Create Committees
In 2012, Republicans created committees to investigate Planned Parenthood and the Benghazi attack.
February 2013: Called for Boldest Move on Gun Control
In February 2013, Pelosi called for the "Boldest possible move" on gun control, similar to a stance made by Gabby Giffords.
2014: Pelosi supports NSA surveillance program PRISM
As of 2014, Pelosi supported the Bush/Obama NSA surveillance program PRISM.
2014: Pelosi's Net Worth Nearly Doubles
In 2014, OpenSecrets reported Pelosi's net worth had almost doubled to about $101 million, making her the 8th-wealthiest member of Congress.
2014: Pelosi Supports Israel in the 2014 Israel–Gaza conflict
Pelosi supported Israel in the 2014 Israel–Gaza conflict.
2014: Pelosi Raises Funds
Until 2014, Pelosi raised more than $400 million in campaign funds.
July 2015: Pelosi on Iran Nuclear Deal
In July 2015, Pelosi voiced her conviction that President Obama would secure enough votes for the Iran nuclear deal, praising his presentation and calling the deal "a diplomatic masterpiece".
2015: Pelosi Supports Cuban Thaw and Visits Havana
In 2015, Pelosi supported President Obama's Cuban Thaw and visited Havana for meetings with high-level officials.
November 17, 2016: Tim Ryan Bids to Replace Pelosi as House Minority Leader
On November 17, 2016, Tim Ryan of Ohio initiated a bid to replace Nancy Pelosi as House Minority Leader following the 2016 presidential election.
2016: Pelosi Argues Against Bills Blocking Iran's Access to the Dollar
In 2016, Pelosi argued against bills that would block Iran's access to the dollar and impose sanctions for its ballistic missile program, citing the JCPOA as the best way to prevent Iran from possessing a nuclear weapon.
2016: Pelosi's Financial Disclosure Report
In 2016, Pelosi's financial disclosure report listed a combined home and vineyard in St. Helena, California, two commercial buildings in San Francisco, and a townhouse in Loomis, California among her assets.
2016: Russian Interference in the 2016 election
Pelosi stated that if credible evidence appeared during the ongoing investigations into Russian interference in the 2016 election then the option of impeachment could be considered.
2016: Pelosi on U.S. National Security Interests
Pelosi voiced heavy criticism over Israel's plan to annex parts of the West Bank and the Jordan Valley, stating that Israeli annexation would undermine U.S. national security interests. Pelosi also said that Democrats are taking "a great pride" in Barack Obama's Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that Israel signed with the Obama administration in 2016, for a guarantee of $38 billion in defense assistance over a decade.
2016: Russian Interference in 2016
Pelosi wrote a letter to Speaker Paul Ryan advocating for the continued House investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election.
January 2017: Pelosi on UN Security Council Resolution 2334
In January 2017, Pelosi voted against a House resolution that would condemn the UN Security Council Resolution 2334, but she condemned the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement targeting Israel.
March 10, 2017: Addressed Efforts to Repeal Affordable Care Act
On March 10, 2017, Pelosi stated Democrats would battle Republican efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act but were open to compromise, supporting expansion of Health Savings Accounts and stressing the importance of Medicaid expansion.
June 9, 2017: Pelosi Criticizes Trump's Tweets and Fitness for Office
On June 9, 2017, Pelosi stated that no one at the White House seemed courageous enough to tell Trump his tweets were beneath the dignity of the presidency and expressed concern about his fitness for office.
August 2017: Pelosi Criticizes Imprisonment of Hong Kong Democracy Activists
In August 2017, Pelosi criticized the imprisonment of Hong Kong democracy activists, calling the ruling an injustice that should "shock the conscience of the world".
August 2017: Supported Removal of Confederate Monuments
In August 2017, Pelosi supported Senator Cory Booker's initiative to remove Confederate monuments and memorials from the Capitol Building through legislation.
August 2017: Pelosi on Trump's Warning to North Korea
In August 2017, following Trump's warning to North Korea, Pelosi criticized the comments as "recklessly belligerent" and demonstrating a "grave lack of appreciation" for the North Korean nuclear situation.
November 2017: Pelosi Calls for Exhausting Remedies with North Korea
In November 2017, after the Pentagon suggested a ground invasion might be necessary in North Korea, Pelosi expressed concern about Pyongyang's selling nuclear technology and called for the United States to "exhaust every other remedy".
December 2017: Pelosi Advocates for Continued Investigation into Russian Interference
In December 2017, Pelosi advocated for the continued House investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, citing the need to prevent future foreign attacks on American democracy.
December 2017: Opposed Trump's Tax Reform
In December 2017, Pelosi opposed the tax reform signed by Trump, calling it "probably one of the worst bills in the history of the United States of America."
2017: Pelosi criticizes Confederate artworks in Capitol
In 2017, Pelosi repeatedly criticized the presence of artworks depicting people who supported the Confederacy in the United States Capitol.
January 2018: Pelosi Criticizes Trump's State of the Union Address
In January 2018, Pelosi criticized Trump's State of the Union address as lacking serious policy ideas and questioned his refusal to implement Russian sanctions.
January 2018: Called Tax Cut Benefits "Crumbs"
In January 2018, Pelosi responded to companies crediting tax cuts with wage increases and bonuses by saying that the benefits workers received were "crumbs" compared to corporate benefits.
February 2018: Pelosi Accuses Trump of Siding with Putin
In February 2018, after the release of a Republican report, Pelosi accused Trump of siding with Russian president Vladimir Putin at the expense of preserving intelligence sources and methods.
February 2018: Response to Stoneman Douglas Shooting
In February 2018, following the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting, Pelosi criticized Republicans' "cowering" to the gun lobby and called for action on gun control.
March 2018: Pelosi Urges Trump to Take Stronger Action Against China
Before the Trump administration took concrete measures against China in late March 2018, Pelosi and other Democratic leaders pressed Trump to focus more on China and impose real punishments.
March 2018: Pelosi on the State of Israel
In March 2018, Pelosi said, "There is no greater political accomplishment in the 20th Century than the establishment of the State of Israel."
April 2018: Pelosi deemed 'most effective congressional leader'
In April 2018, Peter Beinart wrote in The Atlantic that Pelosi had been "the most effective congressional leader of modern times—and, not coincidentally, the most vilified."
May 2018: Pelosi and Schumer call for bipartisan Gang of Eight briefing
In May 2018, Pelosi and Schumer responded to a White House briefing invitation extended solely to Republicans by sending a letter to Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein and FBI director Wray. They requested a bipartisan "Gang of Eight" briefing involving congressional leadership from both chambers to discuss an FBI informant's contact with the Trump campaign.
May 2018: Pelosi on Trump's Withdrawal from Iran Nuclear Deal
In May 2018, after Trump announced his intention to withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal, Pelosi criticized the decision as an abdication of American leadership, calling it "particularly senseless, disturbing & dangerous".
June 2018: Pelosi visits migrant detention facility
In June 2018, Pelosi visited a federal facility used to detain migrant children separated from their parents and subsequently called for the resignation of Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen.
June 2018: Pelosi on Trump Praising Kim Jong-un
In June 2018, after Trump praised North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, Pelosi stated that Trump had elevated North Korea while preserving the regime's status quo.
July 2018: Addressed Affordability Issue of Health Care
In July 2018, Pelosi stated that the Democrat's goal has always been to expand healthcare coverage and address the affordability issues of healthcare.
August 2018: Pelosi calls for Duncan D. Hunter's resignation
In August 2018, Pelosi called for Duncan D. Hunter's resignation following his indictment on charges of misusing campaign funds. She described the charges as "evidence of the rampant culture of corruption among Republicans in Washington today."
August 2018: Response to Trump's Emergency Declaration for Carr Fire
In August 2018, after Trump signed an emergency declaration for federal aid in combating the Carr Fire in Northern California, Pelosi called the move "an important first step" but requested further aid and action on climate change.
November 2018: Spoke with Trump About Infrastructure Development
In November 2018, Pelosi said she had spoken with Trump about infrastructure development, a topic that had been bipartisan in Congress.
November 2018: Staying as Speaker to Protect Affordable Care Act
In November 2018, after Democrats gained a majority in the House, Pelosi stated she was staying as Speaker to protect the Affordable Care Act, calling on Republicans to support the protection of preexisting conditions.
November 2018: Statement After Thousand Oaks Shooting
In November 2018, following the Thousand Oaks shooting, Pelosi released a statement pledging that gun control would be a priority for House Democrats in the 116th United States Congress.
November 2018: Democrats Gain Control of the House, Pelosi Becomes Speaker
In November 2018, the Democrats gained control of the House of Representatives in the elections, and Pelosi took office as Speaker.
December 2018: Pelosi and Schumer Meet with Trump and Pence
In December 2018, Pelosi and Charles E. Schumer met with Trump and Pence to discuss changes to be made when the new Democratic representatives take office in 2019.
2018: Pelosi opposes Trump's border wall efforts during government shutdown
During the 2018-2019 federal government shutdown, Pelosi opposed Trump's attempts to leverage the shutdown to build a border wall. She called it a "hostage-taking" and declined to allow Trump to give the State of the Union Address in the House chamber.
2018: Agreements on Speakership tenure
In 2018, Pelosi agreed not to stay on as speaker beyond January 2023.
2018: Pelosi's Net Worth Estimated at $16.0 Million
In 2018, Roll Call estimated Pelosi's net worth at $16.0 million, making her the 30th-wealthiest member of Congress.
2018: Democrats retake House majority
In the 2018 elections, the Democrats regained a House majority, gaining 41 seats. This was the party's largest gain in the House since 1974.
2018: Impeachment Could be Considered
Pelosi said that in the event that Democrats won the majority of seats in the 2018 elections, impeachment would not be a legislative priority but that the option could be considered if credible evidence appeared during the ongoing investigations into Russian interference in the 2016 election.
January 3, 2019: Pelosi reelected as Speaker of the House
On January 3, 2019, Pelosi was reelected as Speaker of the House at the start of the 116th Congress. She secured the speakership after negotiating with fellow Democrats, agreeing to a term limit of no more than four years.
January 2019: Pelosi Criticizes Trump's Troop Withdrawal Plans
In January 2019, Nancy Pelosi criticized President Trump's planned withdrawal of U.S. troops from Syria and Afghanistan, calling it a "Christmas gift to Vladimir Putin."
January 2019: Pelosi Supports Trump's Decision on Venezuelan Protests
In January 2019, Pelosi supported President Trump in his decision to back the leader of the opposition Juan Guaidó during Venezuelan protests and constitutional crisis.
January 25, 2019: Trump signs bill to reopen government without wall concessions
On January 25, 2019, Trump signed a stopgap bill to reopen the government for three weeks without border wall concessions, allowing negotiations on an appropriations bill. He reiterated his demand for border wall funding.
March 2019: Pelosi on Israel and America
In March 2019, Pelosi stated, "Israel and America are connected now and forever. We will never allow anyone to make Israel a wedge issue."
April 2019: Trump Vows to Defy House Subpoenas
In April 2019, Trump vowed to defy "all" subpoenas from the House and to refuse to allow current or former administration officials to testify before House committees.
May 1, 2019: Met with Trump about Infrastructure Funding
On May 1, 2019, Pelosi and Schumer met with Trump to discuss infrastructure funding.
May 2019: Pelosi Accuses Trump of Obstruction of Justice
In May 2019, Pelosi accused Trump of obstruction of justice after the White House intervened to halt Don McGahn from complying with a subpoena. She stated that "Trump is goading us to impeach him."
June 5, 2019: Pelosi Expresses Desire to See Trump in Prison
On June 5, 2019, Pelosi said, "I don't want to see him impeached, I want to see him in prison," during a meeting with senior Democrats regarding impeachment proceedings against Trump.
June 2019: Pelosi lauded as one of the greatest Speakers
In June 2019, Brent Budowsky opined in The Hill that Pelosi had been "the most important, consequential and effective Speaker since Tip O'Neill" as well as "one of the greatest Speakers who ever served."
September 2019: Pelosi Announces Formal House Impeachment Inquiry
In September 2019, Pelosi announced the beginning of a formal House impeachment inquiry following revelations of the Trump–Ukraine scandal.
September 2019: Pelosi Meets with Hong Kong Pro-Democracy Activist Joshua Wong
In September 2019, Pelosi met with Hong Kong pro-democracy activist Joshua Wong on Capitol Hill; Chinese media responded by accusing Pelosi of "backing and encouraging radical activists".
September 29, 2019: Pelosi announces impeachment inquiry against Trump
On September 29, 2019, Pelosi announced the launch of an impeachment inquiry against Trump.
October 2019: Pelosi Condemns Trump's Actions in Syria
In October 2019, Pelosi criticized President Trump for deserting Kurdish allies in Syria, stating that it posed a dire threat to regional security and stability.
October 2019: House Passes Resolution During Pelosi's Second Term as Speaker
In October 2019, the House voted 405 to 11 to confirm the resolution during Pelosi's second term as Speaker.
December 5, 2019: Pelosi authorizes Judiciary Committee to draft articles of impeachment
On December 5, 2019, after an impeachment inquiry, Pelosi authorized the Judiciary Committee to begin drafting articles of impeachment against Trump.
December 18, 2019: House Votes to Impeach Trump
On December 18, 2019, the House voted to impeach Trump for abuse of power and obstruction of Congress, making him the third president in U.S. history to be impeached.
2019: Climate Change Advocacy
In 2019, Pelosi called climate change the "existential threat of our time" and advocated for action to curb it, supporting new technologies and conservation programs.
2019: Pelosi speaks in favor of Equality Act
In 2019, Pelosi spoke in Congress in favor of the Equality Act and called for ending discrimination against LGBT people. She also opposed Trump's transgender military ban.
January 15, 2020: House Transmits Articles of Impeachment to the Senate
On January 15, 2020, the House transmitted the articles of impeachment to the Senate, with Pelosi naming seven Democratic Representatives as House managers.
January 2020: Pelosi called most powerful House speaker in 25 years
In January 2020, on the eve of Trump's first impeachment trial, Washington Post political writer Paul Kane called Pelosi the most powerful House speaker in at least 25 years, noting that some historians were comparing her influence to that of former speaker Sam Rayburn.
February 4, 2020: Pelosi tears up Trump's State of the Union address
On February 4, 2020, at the conclusion of Trump's State of the Union address, Pelosi tore up her official copy of it, citing it as "such a dirty speech". The action was met with criticism from Trump and other Republicans.
June 2020: Pushed for Removal of Confederate Statues and Paintings
In June 2020, following George Floyd's murder and subsequent protests, Pelosi advocated for the removal of all Confederate statues from the Capitol. On June 18, 2020, she also ordered the removal of four paintings of former Confederates from the Capitol Speaker's Gallery.
September 2020: Pelosi faces criticism for hair salon visit
In early September 2020, footage emerged of Pelosi visiting a hair salon in San Francisco in violation of local COVID-19 regulations, leading to criticism and accusations of hypocrisy.
October 8, 2020: Pelosi Announces Legislation for 25th Amendment Commission
On October 8, 2020, Pelosi announced legislation in the House of Representatives to advance the creation of a commission to allow the use of the 25th Amendment to remove Trump from executive duties.
2020: Pelosi Represents California's 11th Congressional District
Due to the 2020 United States redistricting cycle, Pelosi now represents California's 11th congressional district.
2020: Agreements on Speakership tenure
In 2020, Pelosi agreed not to stay on as speaker beyond January 2023.
2020: Pelosi Backs Impeachment Inquiry
Pelosi, under pressure, backed an impeachment inquiry.
January 2021: Pelosi's San Francisco Home Vandalized
In January 2021, Pelosi's San Francisco home was vandalized with graffiti, including messages of "[c]ancel rent," fake blood, and a severed pig's head.
April 2021: Pelosi criticized for immigration stance
In April 2021, House Republicans criticized Pelosi for saying that immigration under the Biden administration was "on a good path", despite high numbers of unaccompanied minors arriving at the border.
May 2021: Small House Majority
From April to May 2021, As Speaker, she has worked with a small majority as 6 seats in the House of Representatives.
June 2021: Pelosi's Husband Purchases Tech Stocks
In May and June 2021, Pelosi's husband purchased stocks in tech companies such as Alphabet, Amazon, and Apple, netting a gain of $5.3 million. This occurred even while Speaker Pelosi was working on anti-trust legislation to better regulate the tech industry.
December 2021: Pelosi announces reelection candidacy
In December 2021, Pelosi announced her candidacy for reelection to the House in 2022.
2021: Pelosi plays key role in Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act passage
In 2021, Pelosi played a key role in the passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
2021: Boehner calls Pelosi most powerful House speaker in U.S. history
In 2021, former Republican speaker John Boehner opined that Pelosi had been the most powerful House speaker in U.S. history.
April 7, 2022: Cordileone communicated his concerns on April 7, 2022
On April 7, 2022, Cordileone communicated his concerns with Pelosi on her support of pro-choice abortion policies.
April 30, 2022: Pelosi Meets with Zelenskyy in Kyiv
On April 30, 2022, Pelosi met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv to pledge U.S. support for Ukraine during the Russian invasion.
May 20, 2022: Pelosi Barred from Receiving Holy Communion
On May 20, 2022, Salvatore Cordileone, archbishop of San Francisco, announced that Pelosi would be barred from receiving Holy Communion because of her support of pro-choice abortion policies.
June 29, 2022: Pelosi Receives Communion at Papal Mass
On June 29, 2022, Pelosi received Communion at a Papal Mass presided over by Pope Francis in Rome at St. Peter's Basilica.
August 2, 2022: Pelosi Visits Taiwan
On August 2, 2022, Nancy Pelosi became the highest-ranking U.S. government official to visit Taiwan in 25 years, despite discouragement from President Biden, triggering a new round of hostilities between the U.S. and China. During her visit, she met with Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-Wen.
August 5, 2022: China Sanctions Pelosi
On August 5, 2022, the Chinese government sanctioned Pelosi for "seriously interfering in China's internal affairs, undermining China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, trampling on the one-China policy, and threatening the peace and stability of the Taiwan Strait".
October 2022: Pelosi Voted in Line with Biden 100% of the Time
As of October 2022, Pelosi had voted in line with Joe Biden's stated position 100% of the time.
October 2022: Paul Pelosi Attacked in Home Invasion
In October 2022, while Pelosi was in Washington, D.C., an intruder entered her San Francisco home, demanding to know her whereabouts, and attacked her husband, Paul Pelosi, with a hammer.
November 2022: Pelosi lauded as 'most effective speaker ever'
In November 2022, Chris Cillizza wrote that Pelosi was "the most effective speaker ever." Other commentators like Johnathan Bernstein, Jackie Calmes, and Sarah Ferris also praised her as one of the greatest and most powerful speakers in U.S. history.
2022: Key legislation passed during 117th Congress
During the 117th Congress in 2022, several key pieces of legislation were passed, including the CHIPS and Science Act, Inflation Reduction Act, and Honoring our PACT Act of 2022 (PACT Act).
2022: Opposed Overturning of Roe v. Wade
In 2022, Pelosi opposed the overturning of Roe v. Wade, describing it as "cruel", "outrageous" and "heart-wrenching".
2022: Pelosi reelected but Democrats lose House majority
In 2022, Pelosi was reelected to the House. However, the Democratic Party lost the House majority.
2022: Pelosi Advises Athletes on Risks at Beijing Winter Olympics
On the eve of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, Pelosi advised American athletes competing: "Do not risk incurring the anger of the Chinese government, because they are ruthless".
January 3, 2023: End of Second Speakership
Nancy Pelosi's second speakership concluded on January 3, 2023, at the end of the 117th Congress.
January 2023: Pelosi concludes speakership and leadership role
On January 3, 2023, Pelosi's second speakership and participation in House Democratic Party leadership concluded at the end of the 117th Congress.
April 2024: Pelosi Urges Biden to Reconsider Arms Shipments to Israel
In April 2024, after drone strikes on aid workers, Pelosi and other Congressional Democrats urged President Biden to reconsider planned arms shipments to the Israeli military.
December 2024: Pelosi Hospitalized After Hip Fracture
In December 2024, Pelosi was hospitalized after fracturing her hip while falling down stairs in high heels during an official trip to Luxembourg. She later underwent hip replacement surgery.
2024: Pelosi influences Biden's campaign decision in 2024 election
Amid concerns about President Biden's reelection prospects in the 2024 presidential election, Pelosi played a key role in the effort to pressure him to withdraw his candidacy before the Democratic National Convention.
