Nancy Pelosi's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A success timeline featuring the most significant achievements of Nancy Pelosi.

Nancy Pelosi is an American politician notable for being the 52nd Speaker of the House, serving two terms (2007-2011 and 2019-2023). As a Democrat, she was the first woman to hold the Speakership and the first woman to lead a major party in Congress. Representing California's 11th congressional district since 1987, she led the House Democrats from 2003 to 2023. Her career marks a significant milestone for women in American politics and reflects a long tenure in Congress.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

1955: First Former Speaker to Reclaim the Gavel Since Sam Rayburn in 1955

In 2018, Pelosi became the first former speaker to reclaim the gavel since Sam Rayburn did in 1955.

February 1987: Pelosi wins Democratic primary in special election

In February 1987, Nancy Pelosi won the Democratic primary in the special election to succeed U.S. Representative Sala Burton, defeating San Francisco Supervisor Harry Britt.

1988: Pelosi collects 76 percent of the vote in California's 5th congressional district

In 1988, Nancy Pelosi collected 76 percent of the vote in California's 5th congressional district.

December 1990: Ryan White CARE Act Signed Into Law

In December 1990, the Ryan White CARE Act, co-authored by Pelosi, which allocated funding for treatment and services for those impacted by HIV/AIDS, was signed into law by President George H. W. Bush.

1990: Pelosi collects 77 percent of the vote in California's 5th congressional district

In 1990, Nancy Pelosi collected 77 percent of the vote in California's 5th congressional district.

November 15, 2002: Defeated Ford for House Democratic Leader

On November 15, 2002, Pelosi defeated Harold Ford Jr. to become the House Democratic Caucus's leader.

November 2002: Elected House Minority Leader

In November 2002, Pelosi was elected to replace Gephardt as House minority leader, becoming the first woman to lead a major party in either chamber of Congress.

2006: Democrats win House Majority

In 2006, Pelosi led the Democrats to a majority in the House for the first time in 12 years and was subsequently elected Speaker.

2007: Pelosi receives NIAF Special Achievement Award

In 2007, Nancy Pelosi received the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) Special Achievement Award for Public Advocacy and remains involved in the foundation.

July 2015: Pelosi supports Iran nuclear deal

In July 2015, Nancy Pelosi expressed confidence that President Obama would secure enough votes for the Iran nuclear deal, praising his presentation and calling the deal a "diplomatic masterpiece".