Nancy Pelosi, a prominent American politician, made history as the first female Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, holding the position from 2007-2011 and 2019-2023. Representing California's 11th district since 1987, she also served as House Minority Leader and led the House Democrats from 2003 to 2023. Pelosi's career milestones cemented her legacy as a trailblazer for women in American politics.
1912: Pelosi's Mother Immigrates to the US
Nancy Pelosi's mother, Annunciata M. "Nancy" D'Alesandro (née Lombardi), immigrated to the United States in 1912 from Fornelli, Isernia, Molise, in Southern Italy.
1915: Pelosi and the Armenian Genocide Resolution
Pelosi's involvement in the Armenian Genocide Resolution highlights the complex historical and political considerations surrounding the events of 1915. Her initial support for the resolution and subsequent decision to postpone a vote reflect the sensitivity of the issue and its potential impact on U.S.-Turkey relations.
March 26, 1940: Birth of Nancy Pelosi
Nancy Patricia D'Alesandro was born on March 26, 1940, in Baltimore, Maryland.
1949: Start of Uninterrupted Democratic Representation
Pelosi's district in San Francisco has been represented by Democrats continuously since 1949.
1958: High School Graduation
In 1958, Nancy Pelosi graduated from the Institute of Notre Dame, an all-girls Catholic high school in Baltimore.
January 1961: Attendance at President Kennedy's Inauguration
Nancy Pelosi attended President John F. Kennedy's inaugural address in January 1961.
1962: College Graduation
Nancy Pelosi graduated from Trinity College (now Trinity Washington University) in Washington, D.C., with a Bachelor of Arts in political science in 1962.
1962: Graduation and Marriage
Nancy Pelosi graduated from Trinity College in 1962. She married businessman Paul Pelosi in the same year, whom she had met during their time as students.
September 7, 1963: Marriage of Nancy D'Alesandro and Paul Pelosi
Nancy D'Alesandro and Paul Francis Pelosi were married in Baltimore at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen on September 7, 1963.
1964: Pelosi Champions the Equality Act
Nancy Pelosi became a staunch advocate for the Equality Act, legislation aimed at amending the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, reflecting her commitment to LGBTQ+ equality.
1967: Brother Becomes Mayor of Baltimore
Thomas D'Alesandro III, Nancy Pelosi's brother, assumed the role of Mayor of Baltimore in 1967.
1969: Move to San Francisco
The Pelosis moved to San Francisco, where Paul's brother Ronald was a member of the City and County of San Francisco's Board of Supervisors.
1971: End of Brother's Term as Mayor
Thomas D'Alesandro III, Nancy Pelosi's brother, concluded his service as Mayor of Baltimore in 1971.
1974: Post-Watergate Elections
In 1974, following the Watergate scandal, the Democratic Party saw their largest gain in the House of Representatives.
1974: Pelosi's Position on the Jackson-Vanik Amendment and China Trade
Pelosi's position on the Jackson-Vanik Amendment, established in 1974, highlights her stance on trade with non-market economies like China. She believed that maintaining trade restrictions could influence China's government and potentially foster democratic change.
1976: Democratic National Committee Member
Nancy Pelosi was elected as a Democratic National Committee member from California in 1976, a role she would continue to hold until 1996.
1977: Chair of the Northern California Democratic Party
In 1977, Nancy Pelosi's influence within the Democratic Party grew as she took on the position of party chair for Northern California.
1983: End of Tenure as California Democratic Party Head
Pelosi's time leading the California Democratic Party ended in 1983.
1983: Death of Phillip Burton
Phillip Burton, a congressman who was instrumental in Pelosi's entry into politics, passed away in 1983.
1984: Chairwoman of the San Francisco Democratic National Convention Host Committee
Nancy Pelosi served as the chairwoman of the San Francisco Democratic National Convention Host Committee in 1984.
1985: Finance Chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee
Nancy Pelosi took on the responsibility of finance chair for the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee starting in 1985.
1986: Sala Burton's Decision Not to Seek Reelection
Due to her declining health, Sala Burton made the difficult decision not to run for reelection to Congress in 1986.
1986: End of Tenure as Finance Chair
Pelosi's time as finance chair for the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee came to an end in 1986.
February 1, 1987: Death of Sala Burton
Sala Burton, the incumbent representative for California's 5th congressional district and Pelosi's predecessor, passed away on February 1, 1987.
February 1987: Pelosi's First Congressional Race
In February 1987, Pelosi entered a special election to succeed U.S. Representative Sala Burton after her death. She won the Democratic primary and then the general election.
April 7, 1987: Victory in Special Election Primary
Pelosi secured a victory against Democratic San Francisco supervisor Harry Britt in the special election primary to succeed Sala Burton on April 7, 1987.
1987: Election to Congress
Nancy Pelosi's congressional journey commenced in 1987 when she was elected to represent California.
March 1988: Pelosi Votes for the Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987
In March 1988, Nancy Pelosi voted for the Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987 and supported overriding President Ronald Reagan's veto. This act was a significant legislative effort to expand civil rights protections.
1988: Dominating Reelection Campaigns
From 1988 onward, Nancy Pelosi consistently secured comfortable victories in her reelection campaigns.
1988: Pelosi's Reelection to Congress
Pelosi was reelected to represent California's 5th congressional district with 76% of the vote.
1988: Start of Unopposed Reelection Streak
After successfully securing her first reelection in 1988, Nancy Pelosi's subsequent campaigns for the House of Representatives were largely unopposed.
1989: Pelosi's Stance on China Following Tiananmen Square Protests
After the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests, Pelosi advocated for a stricter stance against China compared to President George H.W. Bush's approach. She believed that Congress should oppose the annual presidential waiver for China under the Jackson-Vanik Amendment, aiming to pressure the Chinese government and potentially encourage democracy.
1989: Pelosi's Advocacy for Chinese Political Prisoners and Dissidents
Following the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests, Pelosi became a vocal advocate for the release of political prisoners and dissidents in China. She actively worked to provide them with opportunities to seek refuge in the United States.
December 1990: Pelosi Co-Authors the Ryan White CARE Act
In December 1990, President George H. W. Bush signed the Ryan White CARE Act into law, a bill co-authored by Nancy Pelosi. The Act allocated funding for treatment and services for individuals impacted by HIV/AIDS. This was a significant milestone in Pelosi's advocacy for those affected by the AIDS epidemic, which she had committed to in her first term despite facing stigma and criticism.
1990: Pelosi's Continued Reelection
Pelosi secured her seat in Congress again, receiving 77% of the vote in the general election.
1991: Pelosi's Demonstration for Democracy in Tiananmen Square
In 1991, Pelosi, part of a Congressional delegation, unfurled a pro-democracy banner in Tiananmen Square, leading to a confrontation with Chinese police. This bold act demonstrated her unwavering support for human rights and democracy in China.
1991: Opposition to the Gulf War
Pelosi expressed her opposition to US intervention in the 1991 Gulf War.
1992: Redistricting and Reelection
After redistricting, Pelosi ran for reelection in the newly drawn California's 8th congressional district, winning by a significant margin.
1994: Pelosi Helps Shape the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act
In 1994, Nancy Pelosi played a role in shaping the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act, working alongside California Senator Dianne Feinstein and New York Congressman Chuck Schumer. The Act aimed to impose stricter controls on handgun purchases.
1994: Democrats Lose Control of the House
In 1994, the Democratic Party lost control of the House of Representatives. This event is referenced in the context of Pelosi's comments in May 2006 regarding the possibility of Democrats regaining control in the upcoming midterm elections.
1995: Support for Jerusalem Embassy Act
Pelosi voted in favor of the Jerusalem Embassy Act, which aimed to relocate the US embassy in Israel to Jerusalem.
1995: Newt Gingrich's "Contract with America"
In 1995, Newt Gingrich, upon becoming Speaker of the House, put forth his "Contract with America," a 100-day agenda. This is cited as a historical parallel to the Democrats' "first hundred hours" agenda, which itself draws inspiration from President Franklin D. Roosevelt's "first hundred days" initiative to address the Great Depression.
1995: Pelosi Opposes Balanced Budget Amendment
In 1995, Nancy Pelosi voted against the Balanced Budget Proposed Constitutional Amendment. The amendment passed the House but fell short in the Senate, missing the required 2/3 supermajority by two votes.
1996: End of Tenure as DNC Member
Pelosi's tenure as a Democratic National Committee member from California concluded in 1996.
1996: Pelosi's Early Opposition to the Defense of Marriage Act
In 1996, Nancy Pelosi took a stand for LGBTQ+ rights by voting against the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), a piece of legislation that defined marriage as a union between one man and one woman.
1998: Abortion Funding Amendment Vote
In 1998, Pelosi voted in favor of the Abortion Funding Amendment, which, if passed, would have allowed for district funds to be used to promote abortion-related activities while prohibiting the use of federal funds for such purposes.
1999: Pelosi Votes on Education and Religious Displays
In 1999, Nancy Pelosi voted against displaying the Ten Commandments in public buildings, including schools. She supported the No Child Left Behind Act, which increased education spending and introduced student progress testing.
1999: Pelosi's Call for Recognition of the 1989 Protests During Chinese Premier's Visit
In anticipation of Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji's visit to the U.S. in 1999 for World Trade Organization talks, Pelosi urged President Clinton and Vice President Gore to press Zhu for recognition of the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests as a pro-democracy movement.
2000: Pelosi's Fundraising Prowess
In the 2000 election cycle, Nancy Pelosi distinguished herself as a top fundraiser for the Democratic Party, contributing the most to other congressional campaigns among members of Congress.
2000: Alexandra Pelosi's Film on the Campaign Trail
Pelosi's daughter, Alexandra, a journalist, covered the 2000 Republican presidential campaigns, producing a film titled "Journeys with George" about her experiences.
2001: CIA Allegedly Misleads Congress on Interrogation Techniques
Allegations emerged suggesting that the CIA had been misleading Congress regarding the use of enhanced interrogation techniques since 2001, raising serious concerns about transparency and accountability.
2001: Pelosi's Support for the Patriot Act
In 2001, Nancy Pelosi voted in favor of the USA Patriot Act.
2001: House Minority Whip
In 2001, Nancy Pelosi was elected as the House minority whip, marking a significant milestone as the first woman to hold this position in Congress.
2001: Pelosi Elected House Minority Whip
In 2001, Nancy Pelosi was elected the House minority whip, making her the first woman in U.S. history to hold that position. She defeated John Lewis and Steny Hoyer for the post, largely due to her strong fundraising capabilities.
2002: Opposition to the Iraq Resolution
Pelosi opposed the Iraq Resolution, which authorized President George W. Bush to use military force against Iraq. She argued for exhausting all diplomatic options and making a clear case to the American people before resorting to unilateral military action.
2002: Pelosi's Continued Fundraising Success
Nancy Pelosi maintained her exceptional fundraising efforts in the 2002 election cycle, solidifying her reputation as a top fundraiser within the Democratic Party and contributing significantly to other congressional campaigns.
2002: Pelosi Briefed on Enhanced Interrogation Techniques
In 2002, while serving as the ranking member of the House Intelligence Committee, Nancy Pelosi received a briefing on the CIA's use of "enhanced interrogation techniques," including waterboarding, on suspected terrorist Abu Zubaydah.
2002: Pelosi Opposes Iraq Resolution
In 2002, Nancy Pelosi opposed the Iraq Resolution, which authorized President George W. Bush to use military force against Iraq. She argued that using force without exhausting diplomatic remedies would be detrimental to the war on terrorism.
November 15, 2003: Pelosi Elected House Minority Leader
On November 15, 2003, Nancy Pelosi was elected to replace Dick Gephardt as House minority leader after Gephardt resigned to seek the Democratic nomination in the 2004 presidential election. Pelosi became the first woman to lead a major party in either chamber of Congress.
2003: Start of Pelosi's Fundraising Dominance
From 2003, Nancy Pelosi embarked on a remarkable fundraising streak, consistently securing substantial financial resources for the Democratic Party, ultimately raising over $400 million by 2014.
2003: Pelosi Opposes Partial-Birth Abortion Ban
In 2003, Nancy Pelosi voted against the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act and similar previous attempts. She also opposed the criminalization of transporting minors across state lines for an abortion.
2003: Pelosi Leaves Congressional Progressive Caucus
In 2003, upon her election as House minority leader, Nancy Pelosi made the strategic decision to leave the Congressional Progressive Caucus.
2003: Harman Raises Objections to Interrogation Techniques
In early 2003, Democratic Representative Jane Harman sent a letter to the CIA expressing her concerns and objections to the use of enhanced interrogation techniques.
2003: Leadership of House Democrats
Pelosi assumed leadership of the House Democrats in 2003.
2004: Pelosi's Vote Against the Federal Marriage Amendment
In 2004, Nancy Pelosi reaffirmed her support for marriage equality by voting against the proposed Federal Marriage Amendment.
2004: Consistent Electoral Success
Pelosi maintained her electoral dominance through 2004, consistently winning a significant majority of the votes in her reelection campaigns.
November 2005: Pelosi Endorses Withdrawal Proposal from Iraq
In November 2005, after initially declining to commit to John Murtha's proposal for an early troop withdrawal from Iraq, Nancy Pelosi led Democrats in voting against a non-binding resolution for immediate withdrawal. Roughly two weeks later, she endorsed Murtha's proposal.
2005: Pelosi's Opposition to Patriot Act Reauthorization
In 2005, Nancy Pelosi demonstrated her evolving stance on civil liberties by voting against the reauthorization of specific provisions within the Patriot Act.
May 2006: Pelosi on Impeachment Investigation of President Bush
In May 2006, anticipating the upcoming midterm elections, Pelosi informed colleagues that while Democrats would maintain rigorous oversight of the Bush administration, impeachment investigations were "off the table." This came a week after she told The Washington Post that investigations could lead anywhere, even though Democrats were not aiming for impeachment.
November 16, 2006: Pelosi Nominated for Speaker of the House
On November 16, 2006, following the Democrats' victory in the House elections, Nancy Pelosi was unanimously nominated by the Democratic caucus for the position of Speaker of the House.
2006: Overwhelming Support from Democratic Voters
As of 2006, only 13% of registered voters within Pelosi's district identified as Republican, demonstrating her strong support base among Democrats.
2006: Symbolic Gesture for Captured Israeli Soldiers
During the reception, Pelosi displayed replica dog tags of three Israeli soldiers captured in 2006 as a tribute to their sacrifices, highlighting the human cost of the conflict.
2006: Pelosi: A Leading Democratic Fundraiser
In 2006, Nancy Pelosi secured her position as the third-largest fundraiser for the Democratic Party, trailing only former President Bill Clinton and former Senator Hillary Clinton.
2006: Pelosi's Continued Opposition to the Federal Marriage Amendment
Nancy Pelosi once again demonstrated her unwavering support for LGBTQ+ rights by voting against the Federal Marriage Amendment in 2006, consistently opposing efforts to constitutionally restrict marriage to heterosexual couples.
2006: Opposition to Hamas Participation in Palestinian Elections
Pelosi supported a Congressional initiative opposing the participation of Hamas and other designated terrorist organizations in the Palestinian Authority elections.
2006: Democratic Majority and Second Speakership
The 2006 midterm elections saw the Democrats regaining a majority in the House under Pelosi's leadership, leading to her election as Speaker of the House for the first time.
2006: Pelosi's Vote Against the Secure Fence Act
In 2006, Nancy Pelosi cast a vote against the Secure Fence Act, a decision reflective of her stance on immigration and border security.
January 4, 2007: Pelosi Elected Speaker of the House
On January 4, 2007, Nancy Pelosi defeated Republican John Boehner of Ohio in the election for Speaker of the House, securing 233 votes to Boehner's 202. This victory marked her as the first woman to hold the position.
January 5, 2007: Pelosi and Reid Oppose Bush's Iraq Troop Surge
On January 5, 2007, in response to indications that President Bush planned to escalate troop deployment in Iraq, Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid voiced their opposition and sent a letter of condemnation to the President.
January 12, 2007: Support for Congressional Resolution on Iran
Pelosi supported a resolution introduced by Congressman Walter B. Jones requiring the President to seek Congressional authorization before using military force against Iran, except in cases of national emergency.
February 15, 2007: Stance on Diplomatic Resolution with Iran
Pelosi stated her belief in President Bush's commitment to a diplomatic resolution with Iran but emphasized the need for Congress to assert its authority and require consultation before military action.
April 2007: Pelosi Visits Syria Amidst Tensions
In April 2007, Pelosi undertook a controversial visit to Syria, meeting with President Bashar al-Assad and other officials despite the Bush administration's efforts to isolate the country due to its support for militant groups and involvement in the Iraq War.
May 2007: Public Criticism of Colombian President Uribe
During Colombian President Álvaro Uribe's state visit to America in May 2007, Pelosi publicly criticized him, expressing concerns about alleged links between his government and paramilitary groups. She also opposed the Colombian free-trade agreement.
October 2007: Pelosi Navigates Armenian Genocide Resolution
In October 2007, Pelosi faced a complex political challenge as she attempted to bring a resolution to the House floor recognizing the 1915 killing of Armenians by Ottoman Turks as genocide.
2007: Pelosi Honored by NIAF
Pelosi received the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) Special Achievement Award for Public Advocacy in 2007. She had served on the NIAF board for 13 years and continues to be involved.
2007: Pelosi's Stance on Enhanced Interrogation Techniques
In 2007, Nancy Pelosi's office asserted that she had protested the use of enhanced interrogation techniques during briefings in the past, aligning herself with objections raised by fellow Democrat Jane Harman in a letter to the CIA in 2003.
2007: Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2007
In 2007, as Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi led the passage of the Fair Minimum Wage Act, which raised the minimum wage in the U.S. and its territories. Although initially excluding American Samoa, it was later included in HR 2206.
2007: First Term as Speaker of the House
In 2007, Nancy Pelosi made history by becoming the first woman to serve as Speaker of the United States House of Representatives.
2007: Pelosi Becomes Speaker and Resists Impeachment Calls
In 2007, Nancy Pelosi became the Speaker of the House. Despite strong support for impeaching President Bush from her constituents, she held firm against it.
2007: Christine Pelosi's Book Release
Christine Pelosi, Nancy Pelosi's daughter, authored and published a book titled "Campaign Boot Camp: Basic Training for Future Leaders" in 2007.
September 2008: Reception with Israeli Speaker of the Knesset
Pelosi hosted a reception in Washington with Israeli Speaker of the Knesset Dalia Itzik, reaffirming the strong bond between the US and Israel.
2008: Pelosi Chairs Democratic National Convention
In 2008, Nancy Pelosi served as the Permanent Chair of the Democratic National Convention held in Denver, Colorado.
2008: Pelosi's Criticism of China's Actions in Tibet and Support for Human Rights Activists
In 2008, Pelosi condemned China's handling of unrest in Tibet after meeting with the Dalai Lama and Tibetan officials. She urged global action against China's human rights violations. That same year, she applauded the European Parliament for awarding the Sakharov Prize to Chinese dissident Hu Jia and demanded his release.
2008: Rebuke by Archbishop Wuerl
In 2008, Pelosi faced criticism from Archbishop Donald Wuerl of Washington, D.C., for her comments on "Meet the Press" concerning the Catholic Church's stance on abortion and when life begins. Wuerl deemed her statement that the Church hasn't defined when life begins "incorrect".
2008: Pelosi Faces Anti-War Challenge
In the 2008 election, Pelosi faced a challenge from anti-war activist Cindy Sheehan, who ran as an independent primarily due to Pelosi's stance against impeaching President Bush. Pelosi withstood this challenge and retained her seat.
2008: Opposition to the Cuban Embargo
Pelosi publicly opposed the Cuban embargo, advocating for its removal and increased people-to-people exchanges between the US and Cuba.
2008: Pelosi Welcomes Overturning of California's Same-Sex Marriage Ban
In 2008, Nancy Pelosi expressed her support for the Supreme Court of California's decision to overturn the state's ban on same-sex marriage, hailing it as a momentous step towards equality.
January 25, 2009: Support for Family Planning Services
In a January 25, 2009 interview with ABC News, Pelosi highlighted her support for family planning services, arguing they would reduce costs for both state and federal governments.
February 2009: Meeting with Pope Benedict XVI
Following the controversy surrounding her comments on abortion, Pelosi met with her bishop, Archbishop George Hugh Niederauer of San Francisco, and Pope Benedict XVI in February 2009.
March 2009: Controversy Over Use of Military Aircraft
In March 2009, Pelosi faced scrutiny from Judicial Watch regarding her use of a Boeing 757 for taxpayer-funded travel. Pelosi clarified that the policy was in place for security reasons, initiated by President Bush and previously applied to Speaker Dennis Hastert.
April 2009: Pelosi Denies Knowledge of Waterboarding Use
In April 2009, during a press conference, Nancy Pelosi refuted claims that she had been informed about the use of waterboarding or other enhanced interrogation techniques. She stated that while legislative counsel opinions suggested these methods could be used, Congress was to be briefed only if and when they were implemented.
June 26, 2009: Allegations of CIA Misleading Congress on Interrogation Techniques
On June 26, 2009, a letter signed by prominent Democratic lawmakers, including Nancy Pelosi, alleged that CIA Director Leon Panetta had revealed that the agency had misled Congress for years, dating back to 2001, regarding the use of enhanced interrogation techniques.
December 2009: Pelosi's Leadership with a Large Majority
In December 2009, Nancy Pelosi effectively led the House of Representatives with a substantial Democratic majority of 81 seats (258-177).
2009: Passage of Landmark Legislation
During her first speakership, which included the year 2009, Pelosi was instrumental in the passage of significant legislation during the Obama administration. Notable among these were the Affordable Care Act, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
2009: Pelosi Reelected Speaker
In 2009, Nancy Pelosi was reelected as Speaker of the House, continuing her leadership in the House of Representatives.
2009: Pelosi Ranked 13th Wealthiest in Congress
OpenSecrets estimated Pelosi's net worth to be around $58 million in 2009, placing her as the 13th wealthiest member of Congress.
January 2010: Pelosi's Role in Passing the Affordable Care Act
In January 2010, after Democrat Ted Kennedy's former Senate seat was won by Republican Scott Brown in a special election, the Democrats lost their filibuster-proof majority. Despite this, and initial hesitation from President Obama, Pelosi is credited with spearheading the passage of the Affordable Care Act. She rallied her caucus, leading a two-month effort to craft and pass the bill, which ultimately passed with a vote of 219-212 in the House.
March 2010: Pelosi's Power and Influence Recognized
By early 2010, analysts were recognizing Pelosi's significant power and influence, with some considering her to be potentially the most powerful woman in U.S. history and among the most powerful speakers in the past century.
November 2010: Pelosi's Speakership: A Mixed Record
In November 2010, following the Democrats' loss of the House majority, Politico writer John Bresnahan characterized Pelosi's speakership record as "mixed." He acknowledged her power and influence within the House Democratic Caucus but pointed out her low approval ratings nationally. Bresnahan argued that Pelosi's leadership and legislative agenda, particularly the Affordable Care Act, had negatively impacted the Democrats in the 2010 elections.
November 2010: Pelosi's Effectiveness and Public Perception
In November 2010, Brian Naylor of NPR commented on Pelosi's effectiveness, noting that she had successfully guided numerous bills through Congress, but also acknowledged her low approval ratings, suggesting that she was "perhaps not the best person to be the face of the Democratic Party."
November 17, 2010: Pelosi Becomes House Minority Leader
Despite being re-elected to her Congressional seat by a comfortable margin, Pelosi and the Democrats faced a significant setback in the 2010 elections, losing 63 seats and control of the House of Representatives. Following this defeat, Pelosi sought to continue leading the House Democratic Caucus as minority leader, a position she held prior to becoming speaker. Despite facing a challenge from Representative Heath Shuler, she successfully retained her leadership role within the caucus.
2010: Scholarly Assessments of Pelosi's Speakership
In 2010, various opinions and analyses emerged regarding Pelosi's performance as Speaker of the House. Gail Russell Chaddock of the Christian Science Monitor described her as the "most powerful House speaker since Sam Rayburn a half century ago," but also as "one of the most partisan." Scholarly perspectives also acknowledged the polarized public opinion of Pelosi, with some ranking her highly among modern speakers and attributing significant legislative productivity to the 111th Congress under her leadership.
2010: Passing the Affordable Care Act
In 2010, Pelosi played a crucial role in passing the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. She convinced President Obama to push forward with health-care reform following a significant electoral setback, securing 219 votes in the House.
2010: Republican House Majority and Return to Minority Leader
Following the Republican Party's success in regaining a majority in the House during the 2010 midterm elections, Pelosi's tenure as Speaker ended. However, she retained her leadership role among House Democrats, becoming the House minority leader for the second time.
2010: Representing a New District
After another redistricting cycle, Pelosi was elected to represent California's 12th congressional district.
2010: Pelosi Supports Bill Labeling China as a Currency Manipulator
In 2010, Pelosi showed support for a bill that would designate China as a currency manipulator. This action aimed to address concerns about China's economic practices and their impact on U.S. exporters.
November 2011: Insider Trading Allegations and the STOCK Act
In November 2011, the news program "60 Minutes" aired a report alleging that Pelosi, along with other members of Congress, had used information acquired during closed sessions for personal gain in the stock market. The report specifically highlighted Pelosi's purchase of Visa Inc. stock while legislation related to credit card fees was under consideration in the House. Pelosi refuted the allegations, dismissing them as a politically motivated smear campaign. The following year, when the Stop Trading on Congressional Knowledge Act (STOCK Act) was introduced, she voted in favor of it and praised its passage, emphasizing its role in addressing a significant gap in ethical regulations.
2011: End of First Speakership
Pelosi's first tenure as Speaker of the House concluded in 2011.
November 14, 2012: Pelosi Announces Intention to Remain Democratic Leader
On November 14, 2012, Pelosi publicly declared her intention to continue serving as the Democratic leader.
2012: Benghazi Attack Committee Comparison
As part of her advocacy for gun control measures, Pelosi drew a comparison to Republicans' previous actions, pointing out that they had formed committees to investigate Planned Parenthood and the 2012 Benghazi attack.
2012: Business Insider Estimates Pelosi's Net Worth
Business Insider estimated Pelosi's net worth to be $26.4 million in 2012, ranking her as the 13th richest member of Congress.
2012: Pelosi's Support for LGBT Rights Stems from Catholic Faith
In 2012, Nancy Pelosi, a devout Catholic, publicly stated that her unwavering support for LGBTQ+ rights, including same-sex marriage, was deeply rooted in her faith, even though it conflicted with Catholic doctrine.
2012: Low Ratings from Gun Rights Groups
Pelosi received a 0% rating from Gun Owners of America and a 7% rating from the National Rifle Association of America in 2012, reflecting her strong stance on gun control.
February 2013: Call for Bold Gun Control Measures
In February 2013, Pelosi called for the "Boldest possible move" on gun control, echoing a sentiment expressed earlier by former Representative and gun control advocate Gabby Giffords.
2014: Pelosi's Net Worth Nearly Doubles
OpenSecrets reported that Pelosi's net worth had increased to approximately $101 million in 2014, making her the 8th wealthiest member of Congress.
2014: Pelosi's Fundraising Legacy
By 2014, Nancy Pelosi had solidified her legacy as a fundraising powerhouse for the Democratic Party, having raised more than $400 million since 2003.
2014: Pelosi Supports Israel in Gaza Conflict
In 2014, Nancy Pelosi demonstrated her support for Israel during the Israel-Gaza conflict.
July 2015: Confidence in the Iran Nuclear Deal
Pelosi expressed confidence in President Obama's ability to secure the Iran nuclear deal, praising his presentation and calling the deal a diplomatic achievement.
2015: Support for the Cuban Thaw
Pelosi supported President Obama's Cuban Thaw in 2015 and traveled to Havana to meet with high-ranking officials, signifying a shift in US-Cuba relations.
August 2016: Pelosi Targeted in Cyberattack
In August 2016, Pelosi revealed that she had been targeted in a cyberattack that compromised the personal information of prominent Democrats involved in campaigns. As a result, she became the victim of harassment, receiving a barrage of offensive calls, voicemails, and text messages. The incident prompted her to issue a warning to fellow members of Congress, urging them to take precautions to protect their families from similar harassment.
November 17, 2016: Pelosi Faces Leadership Challenge from Tim Ryan
In the wake of the 2016 presidential election, there was a push within the Democratic Party for new leadership. Representative Tim Ryan from Ohio launched a bid to replace Pelosi as House minority leader. In response to calls for change, Pelosi pledged to create more leadership opportunities for junior members within the party. Ultimately, she successfully fended off Ryan's challenge, securing another term as House minority leader.
2016: Pelosi Calls for Investigation into Russian Election Interference
Following the 2016 election, Pelosi advocated for a thorough investigation into Russian interference, recognizing the threat it posed to American democracy and national security.
2016: Russian Interference in the Election
In 2016, Russia interfered with the US election.
2016: Opposition to Bills Blocking Iran's Access to Dollar
Pelosi opposed two Congressional bills aimed at blocking Iran's access to the dollar and imposing sanctions for its ballistic missile program, arguing that the existing nuclear agreement (JCPOA) was the most effective means to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
2016: Russian Interference in the 2016 Election
Pelosi referenced the ongoing investigations into Russian interference in the 2016 election as a potential factor that could lead to the consideration of impeachment proceedings against President Trump.
2016: Financial Disclosure Reveals Assets
Pelosi's 2016 financial disclosure revealed assets including a home and vineyard in St. Helena, California, commercial buildings in San Francisco, and a townhouse in Loomis, California.
January 2017: Pelosi Votes Against Condemnation of UN Resolution 2334
In January 2017, Pelosi voted against a House resolution condemning UN Security Council Resolution 2334, which declared Israeli settlements in Palestinian territories a violation of international law.
March 10, 2017: Pelosi on Affordable Care Act Repeal Efforts
On March 10, 2017, Pelosi stated that Democrats would resist Republican attempts to repeal the Affordable Care Act but were open to compromise if approached. She later praised Senator John McCain for opposing the repeal efforts.
June 9, 2017: Concern Over Trump's Tweets About Comey
During a June 9, 2017 news conference, Pelosi expressed concern over President Trump's tweets criticizing former FBI director James Comey, suggesting that no one at the White House was willing to address the inappropriateness of the tweets.
June 2017: Pelosi's Leadership Questioned
In June 2017, following a series of losses by Democrats in special elections, Representatives Kathleen Rice and Cedric Richmond, among others, initiated discussions about potential new leadership for the Democratic party. Some called for Pelosi's replacement as House minority leader, while she defended her record.
August 2017: Pelosi Supports Removal of Confederate Monuments
In August 2017, Nancy Pelosi expressed her support for the removal of Confederate monuments and memorials from the U.S. Capitol Building, a stance reflecting her position on racial justice and historical representation.
August 2017: Pelosi Condemns Trump's Rhetoric on North Korea
In August 2017, Pelosi criticized President Trump's aggressive language towards North Korea, calling it "recklessly belligerent" and detrimental to U.S. credibility in the face of the North Korean nuclear threat.
August 2017: Pelosi Condemns Imprisonment of Hong Kong Democracy Activists
In August 2017, Pelosi expressed strong disapproval of the imprisonment of Hong Kong democracy activists for their participation in a protest at the Civic Square. She labeled the ruling an unfair act that should be condemned globally.
November 2017: Pelosi Expresses Concern Over North Korea's Nuclear Proliferation
In November 2017, following a Pentagon assessment on North Korea's nuclear capabilities, Pelosi voiced concerns about the potential for North Korea to share its nuclear technology and advocated for exhausting all other options before resorting to military intervention.
November 2017: Pelosi Addresses Workplace Harassment
In November 2017, in response to allegations against John Conyers and growing national concern over sexual harassment, Pelosi organized meetings to address workplace policy reform, emphasizing Congress's duty to create a respectful and dignified work environment.
December 2017: Pelosi Criticizes Trump Tax Reform
In December 2017, Nancy Pelosi strongly opposed the tax reform signed by President Trump, calling it one of the worst bills in U.S. history. She argued that it unfairly benefited the rich and corporations at the expense of middle-class families.
December 2017: Pelosi Advocates for Continued Investigation into Russian Interference
In December 2017, Pelosi urged Speaker Paul Ryan to continue the House investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, emphasizing the importance of a thorough inquiry to protect American democracy.
January 2018: Criticism of Trump's State of the Union Address
Pelosi characterized Trump's 2018 State of the Union Address as lacking substantial policy ideas, criticizing his refusal to implement Russian sanctions despite congressional approval.
January 2018: Pelosi Calls Corporate Bonuses 'Crumbs'
In January 2018, Pelosi referred to the bonuses given to workers due to the tax bill as 'crumbs,' arguing that the benefits for workers were minimal compared to the substantial gains for corporations.
February 2018: Pelosi Accuses Trump of Siding with Putin
In February 2018, Pelosi accused President Trump of prioritizing his relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin over protecting U.S. intelligence sources and methods, particularly in light of a Republican report alleging surveillance abuses by the Justice Department.
February 2018: Criticism of Republicans' Inaction on Gun Control
In the aftermath of the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in February 2018, Pelosi criticized Republicans, accusing them of "cowering" to the gun lobby. She urged House Speaker Ryan to consider legislation on background checks and gun violence research.
February 2018: Pelosi's Record-Breaking House Speech
In February 2018, Pelosi delivered the longest House speech on record, lasting over eight hours, to protest a budget deal that didn't address the future of DACA recipients.
February 2018: Pelosi Challenges Nunes Memo
In February 2018, Pelosi opposed the release of a memo by Devin Nunes that criticized the FBI's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election. She argued that it was inaccurate and threatened national security.
March 2018: Pelosi States Support for Israel
In March 2018, Nancy Pelosi stated her belief that the establishment of Israel was the greatest political accomplishment of the 20th century.
March 2018: Pelosi Urges Stronger Action Against China's Unfair Trade Practices
Prior to the Trump administration's concrete actions against China in late March 2018, Pelosi and other Democratic leaders pressed President Trump to prioritize China by imposing meaningful consequences. This included labeling China as a currency manipulator and protecting U.S. companies from intellectual property theft.
April 2018: Pelosi: Effective Leader, Target of Criticism
In April 2018, Peter Beinart, in The Atlantic, described Pelosi as the most effective congressional leader of our time, but also the most criticized.
May 2018: Criticism of Trump's Withdrawal from Iran Nuclear Deal
Pelosi criticized President Trump's decision to withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal, calling it a failure of American leadership and a dangerous move.
May 2018: Pelosi Demands Bipartisan Briefing
In May 2018, Pelosi, along with Schumer, requested a bipartisan briefing from the Department of Justice regarding an FBI informant who had been in contact with the Trump campaign, emphasizing the need for transparency and inclusion of both parties.
June 2018: Pelosi's Visit to Migrant Detention Center and Call for Nielsen's Resignation
Following her visit to a federal facility housing migrant children separated from their parents in June 2018, Nancy Pelosi publicly demanded the resignation of Kirstjen Nielsen, then-Secretary of Homeland Security.
June 2018: Pelosi Criticizes Trump's Approach to North Korea
In June 2018, Pelosi criticized President Trump's praise for Kim Jong-un, arguing that it legitimized the North Korean regime without achieving tangible progress on denuclearization.
July 2018: Pelosi Advocates for Affordable Care Act
In July 2018, Pelosi emphasized the importance of expanding healthcare coverage and improving benefits during a speech at Independence First. She criticized Republicans for undermining affordability and misrepresenting their stance on preexisting conditions.
August 2018: Pelosi Responds to Carr Fire Emergency Declaration
In August 2018, following President Trump's emergency declaration for federal aid to combat the Carr Fire in Northern California, Pelosi called for further aid and urgent action on climate change to address the increasing severity of wildfires.
August 2018: Pelosi Calls for Hunter's Resignation
In August 2018, following Duncan D. Hunter's indictment on charges of misusing campaign funds, Pelosi called for his resignation, citing it as a reflection of a larger problem of corruption within the Republican party in Washington.
November 2018: Gun Control Pledge After Thousand Oaks Shooting
Following the tragic Thousand Oaks shooting in November 2018, Pelosi pledged to prioritize gun control in the 116th United States Congress, emphasizing the need to address the "daily epidemic of gun violence".
November 2018: Pelosi Discusses Infrastructure with Trump
In November 2018, Pelosi spoke with President Trump about the importance of infrastructure development, emphasizing the need for bipartisan legislative initiatives to create jobs and stimulate economic growth.
November 2018: Pelosi Defends Affordable Care Act Post-Midterms
In November 2018, following the Democrats' House majority win, Pelosi declared her intention to remain as Speaker to protect the Affordable Care Act, highlighting its importance to American families' health and financial well-being.
November 2018: Pelosi Becomes Speaker of the House
Following the Democratic Party's victory in the November 2018 midterm elections, Pelosi assumed the position of Speaker of the House.
December 2018: Meeting with Trump and Pence
Pelosi and Charles E. Schumer met with President Trump and Vice President Pence in December 2018 to discuss the upcoming transition as Democrats prepared to assume control of the House.
2018: Impeachment Not a Priority (Initially)
When asked about the possibility of Democrats pursuing impeachment proceedings against Trump if they gained a House majority in the 2018 elections, Pelosi stated it wouldn't be a legislative priority unless credible evidence emerged from the Russia investigation.
2018: Government Shutdown
In 2018, the US government experienced a shutdown.
2018: Democratic House Victory
In 2018, the Democratic party achieved a significant victory by winning back control of the House of Representatives in the midterm elections.
2018: Pelosi: "Strongest and Most Effective" Speaker
In 2018, Thomas Mann of the Brookings Institution offered his assessment of Pelosi's first tenure as Speaker of the House, calling her the "strongest and most effective speaker of modern times."
2018: Pelosi's Role in Passing Obama's Agenda
In 2018, Robert Draper, writing for The New York Times Magazine, described Pelosi as the "legislative equivalent" of a quarterback who helped shepherd many of former President Barack Obama's major legislative priorities into law. Draper noted that while Obama faced criticism for his handling of certain legislative efforts, Pelosi was instrumental in securing their passage.
2018: Pelosi Agrees to Leadership Term Limit
In 2018, Pelosi agreed to a term limit on her leadership role.
2018: Democrats Reclaim House Majority
Pelosi's leadership was instrumental in the Democratic Party regaining control of the House of Representatives in the 2018 midterm elections, leading to her historical reelection as Speaker, a feat not accomplished since Sam Rayburn in 1955.
January 3, 2019: Pelosi Reclaims Speakership
On January 3, 2019, Pelosi was re-elected as Speaker of the House for the 116th Congress, after Democrats gained a majority in the 2018 midterm elections. This marked a significant victory for Pelosi and the Democratic party.
January 2019: Support for Guaidó in Venezuela
Pelosi expressed support for President Trump's decision to recognize Juan Guaidó as the legitimate leader of Venezuela amidst protests and a constitutional crisis in the country.
January 25, 2019: Government Shutdown and Border Wall Dispute
On January 25, 2019, after a government shutdown over funding for a border wall, a deal was reached to temporarily reopen the government. Trump, however, continued to push for border wall funding, threatening another shutdown or a national emergency declaration.
March 2019: Pelosi Rejects Israel as a Wedge Issue
In March 2019, Pelosi emphasized the enduring bond between Israel and America, stating that Israel should never be used as a divisive issue.
April 2019: Trump's Defiance of House Subpoenas
In April 2019, President Trump announced his intention to defy all subpoenas issued by House committees, escalating tensions between the executive and legislative branches.
May 1, 2019: Pelosi and Schumer Meet with Trump on Infrastructure
On May 1, 2019, Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer met with President Trump to discuss infrastructure funding. Later that month, a subsequent meeting was abruptly cut short by Trump.
May 2019: Pelosi Accuses President Trump of Obstruction of Justice
In May 2019, Pelosi accused President Trump of obstructing justice after the White House blocked former White House Counsel Don McGahn from complying with a House Judiciary Committee subpoena. She argued that Trump's interference constituted a cover-up.
June 5, 2019: Pelosi's Statement on President Trump's Actions
On June 5, 2019, during a meeting with senior Democrats, Pelosi expressed her preference for seeing President Trump imprisoned rather than impeached. She believed that focusing on impeachment could jeopardize the Democrats' House majority and preferred to prioritize other legislation.
June 2019: Praise for Pelosi's Leadership
In June 2019, Brent Budowsky wrote in The Hill, praising Nancy Pelosi as the most significant and effective Speaker of the House since Tip O'Neill.
July 2019: House Impeachment Inquiry Focuses on President Trump's Actions Related to Ukraine
The House impeachment inquiry centered around President Trump's attempts to pressure Ukraine's government into investigating his political rival, Joe Biden. This included withholding military aid and a White House visit, as well as a July 2019 phone call where Trump asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to "do us a favor" and investigate Biden.
September 2019: Announcement of Formal House Impeachment Inquiry Against President Trump
In September 2019, Pelosi announced the start of a formal impeachment inquiry against President Trump in response to the Trump-Ukraine scandal. She stated that Trump's actions severely violated the Constitution and he must be held accountable.
September 2019: Meeting with Joshua Wong
In September 2019, Pelosi met with Hong Kong pro-democracy activist Joshua Wong on Capitol Hill, sparking criticism from Chinese media who accused her of supporting radical activists.
September 29, 2019: Impeachment Inquiry Launched
On September 29, 2019, Pelosi announced the commencement of an impeachment inquiry against President Trump.
October 2019: Pelosi Condemns Trump's Actions in Syria, Visits Jordan and Afghanistan
In October 2019, Pelosi continued to criticize President Trump's handling of the Syrian situation, particularly his decision to withdraw troops from northern Syria, which she argued abandoned Kurdish allies and emboldened Turkey.
October 2019: House Passes Armenian Genocide Resolution
In October 2019, the House of Representatives, under Pelosi's speakership, passed a resolution formally recognizing the 1915 massacre of Armenians by the Ottoman Empire as genocide.
December 5, 2019: Drafting of Impeachment Articles Authorized
On December 5, 2019, Pelosi authorized the Judiciary Committee to begin drafting articles of impeachment.
December 2019: First Impeachment of President Trump
Under Pelosi's leadership, the House of Representatives voted to impeach President Donald Trump in December 2019, marking the first of two impeachment proceedings during her tenure.
December 18, 2019: House of Representatives Votes to Impeach President Trump
On December 18, 2019, the House of Representatives voted to impeach President Trump for abuse of power and obstruction of Congress, making him the third U.S. president to be impeached. Pelosi argued that this action was necessary to uphold their duty and hold Trump accountable for his reckless actions.
2019: Pelosi Speaks Out for LGBT Equality and Against Transgender Military Ban
In 2019, Nancy Pelosi delivered a powerful speech in Congress advocating for the passage of the Equality Act, calling for an end to discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals.
2019: Second Speakership
Nancy Pelosi reclaimed her position as Speaker of the House in 2019, marking the beginning of her second tenure.
2019: Pelosi Addresses Climate Change
In 2019, Nancy Pelosi highlighted climate change as 'the existential threat of our time' and advocated for the development of technologies to reduce dependence on foreign oil and mitigate the environmental impact of fossil fuels.
January 2020: Pelosi's Power Acknowledged
On the eve of Trump's first impeachment trial in January 2020, Washington Post writer Paul Kane recognized Pelosi as the most powerful House speaker in at least 25 years.
January 15, 2020: House Transmits Impeachment Articles to the Senate
After initially delaying the process to negotiate a fair trial, the House, led by Pelosi, transmitted the articles of impeachment to the Senate on January 15, 2020. Pelosi appointed seven House managers to argue the case against Trump.
February 4, 2020: Pelosi Tears Up Trump's Speech
On February 4, 2020, Pelosi tore up her copy of Trump's State of the Union address, an act she described as "a courteous thing to do" given the content of the speech. The action drew criticism from Trump and other Republicans.
September 2020: Pelosi's Salon Visit Sparks Controversy
In September 2020, Pelosi faced criticism for visiting a San Franscisco hair salon while indoor services were restricted due to COVID-19 regulations. Though she called it a "setup," the incident fueled accusations of hypocrisy from opponents.
October 8, 2020: Pelosi Announces Legislation for a Commission on Presidential Capacity
On October 8, 2020, Pelosi announced the introduction of legislation to establish a commission to explore the use of the 25th Amendment to remove President Trump from office due to concerns about his fitness for office.
2020: Pelosi's Strategy for Dealing with President Trump
Pelosi believed that Trump could be prosecuted after losing the 2020 election to a Democrat and preferred this outcome to impeachment.
2020: Pelosi Reaffirms Leadership Term Limit
In 2020, Pelosi reaffirmed her commitment to the leadership term limit she had previously agreed to.
2020: Representing California's 11th District
Due to redistricting based on the 2020 census, Pelosi began representing California's 11th congressional district.
January 2021: Second Impeachment of President Trump
The House of Representatives, again under Pelosi's leadership, initiated a second impeachment inquiry against President Donald Trump in January 2021.
January 2021: Vandalism at Pelosi's San Francisco Home
In January 2021, Pelosi's San Francisco residence was vandalized. The perpetrators spray-painted graffiti, left messages demanding rent cancellation, and placed a severed pig's head and fake blood at the scene.
April 2021: Pelosi's "Good Path" Comment on Immigration Draws Criticism
In April 2021, amid a surge in southern border crossings, Nancy Pelosi faced criticism from House Republicans for her assertion that immigration under the Biden administration was "on a good path", particularly in light of U.S. Customs and Border Protection's report of nearly 19,000 unaccompanied minor arrivals in March.
May 2021: Pelosi's Leadership with a Slim Majority
In May 2021, Nancy Pelosi navigated the challenges of leading the House of Representatives with a narrow Democratic majority of only 6 seats (218-212).
June 2021: Pelosi's Husband's Stock Trades Spark Controversy
In June 2021, reports revealed that Paul Pelosi, Nancy Pelosi's husband, had purchased stocks in major tech companies like Alphabet, Amazon, and Apple, resulting in substantial profits. This coincided with Pelosi's involvement in anti-trust legislation targeting the tech industry, leading to accusations of a conflict of interest.
December 2021: Pelosi Announces Reelection Bid
In December 2021, Pelosi announced her decision to run for reelection to the House in 2022, despite previous agreements to step down from leadership. While she won reelection, the Democrats lost their House majority, leading to her announcement that she would not pursue a leadership role in the next Congress.
2021: Kamala Harris Becomes Vice President
With Kamala Harris's inauguration as vice president in 2021, Nancy Pelosi's position in the presidential line of succession shifted.
2021: Recognition as Most Powerful House Speaker
In 2021, former Republican speaker John Boehner stated that Nancy Pelosi was the most powerful House speaker in U.S. history.
2021: Pelosi's Role in Infrastructure Bill
In 2021, Pelosi played a significant role in passing the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, demonstrating her continued influence and leadership in the House.
April 7, 2022: Archbishop Cordileone Communicates Concerns to Pelosi
Archbishop Cordileone wrote to Nancy Pelosi, expressing his concerns about her support for abortion rights. He stated that she should publicly repudiate her stance or refrain from receiving Communion.
April 30, 2022: Pelosi Visits Zelenskyy in Kyiv
On April 30, 2022, as a powerful demonstration of U.S. support for Ukraine following the Russian invasion, Pelosi traveled to Kyiv to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
May 20, 2022: Pelosi Barred from Communion in San Francisco
Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone of San Francisco announced that Nancy Pelosi would be barred from receiving Holy Communion due to her stance on pro-choice abortion policies.
June 29, 2022: Pelosi Receives Communion at Papal Mass
Nancy Pelosi received Communion at a Papal Mass conducted by Pope Francis in St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.
August 2, 2022: Visit to Taiwan
On August 2, 2022, Pelosi became the highest-ranking US official to visit Taiwan in 25 years, a move that heightened tensions between the US and China. Despite discouragement from President Biden, Pelosi affirmed her support for Taiwan's freedom and met with Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-Wen. China responded with retaliatory measures.
October 2022: Attack on Paul Pelosi
An intruder entered Nancy Pelosi's San Francisco home and attacked her husband, Paul Pelosi, with a hammer. The suspect, David DePape, was arrested and charged with attempted kidnapping of Nancy Pelosi and assault.
November 2022: Widespread Acclaim for Pelosi's Leadership
In November 2022, various prominent figures, including Chris Cillizza, Johnathan Bernstein, Jackie Calmes, Sarah Ferris, and Lindsay M. Chervinsky, lauded Nancy Pelosi's effectiveness and historical significance as Speaker of the House.
November 29, 2022: Speaker Emerita
The Steering and Policy Committee of the House Democratic Caucus bestowed the title of "Speaker Emerita" upon Nancy Pelosi on November 29, 2022.
2022: Opposition to Roe v. Wade Overturning
Pelosi expressed strong opposition to the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade in 2022, labeling it "cruel", "outrageous", and "heart-wrenching".
2022: Advice to US Athletes Competing in Beijing Olympics
On the eve of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, Pelosi advised American athletes to prioritize their safety and avoid angering the Chinese government due to its ruthlessness.
2022: Passage of Key Legislation
In 2022, during the 117th Congress, several significant bills were passed, including the CHIPS and Science Act, the Inflation Reduction Act, and the Honoring our PACT Act of 2022 (PACT Act).
2022: Pelosi Re-elected, Democrats Lose House
In 2022, Pelosi was re-elected, but the Democratic Party lost control of the House.
January 3, 2023: Conclusion of Pelosi's Second Speakership
Nancy Pelosi's second term as Speaker of the House and her leadership role in the House Democratic Party concluded on January 3, 2023, marking the end of the 117th Congress.
January 2023: Pelosi to Step Down from Leadership
By January 2023, Pelosi agreed to step down from her leadership position.
2023: Conclusion of Second Speakership and Retirement
Pelosi's second tenure as Speaker of the House ended in 2023. Subsequently, she retired as the House Democratic leader.
April 2024: Pelosi Urges Biden to Reconsider Arms Shipments to Israel
Following the tragic drone strikes on aid workers in April 2024, Pelosi, alongside other Democratic lawmakers, wrote to President Biden urging him to reconsider planned arms shipments to the Israeli military, expressing concern over the potential for further escalation of the conflict.