Nancy Pelosi Celebrated and Controversial at DNC for Role in Biden's Decision
ICARO Media Group
The Democratic National Convention held in Chicago has become a platform for both celebration and controversy surrounding former House speaker Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.). Known for her role in nudging President Joe Biden to step aside and not seek reelection, Pelosi's presence at the convention has garnered mixed reactions.
Pelosi, when questioned about any regrets regarding her involvement in the recent realignment of the presidential race, responded firmly, stating, "I'm a very deliberate person. Why would you ask me that question?" Despite public questioning of Biden's reelection bid, Pelosi maintains she has no regrets and is unapologetic for her efforts.
While the convention is primarily intended to celebrate Vice President Kamala Harris's elevation to the national ticket, it has also become something of a "no-apologies tour" for Pelosi. She has been memorialized, criticized, and even meme-d for her influential role in shaping Biden's decision. Pelosi has been greeted like a hero, attended numerous events, hosted a luncheon with over 500 guests, and graciously stopped to take countless selfies.
Some Democrats, however, remain bitterly upset with Pelosi's public pressure campaign to push Biden out. They have privately expressed intentions to diminish her influence within the party after the November election. While challenging, given Pelosi's stature among Democrats, they may aim to target her daughter, Christine Pelosi, who is rumored to be considering a run for her mother's House seat whenever Pelosi decides to step aside permanently.
In response to these Democrats' animosity towards her role in Biden's exit, Pelosi remains unfazed. She emphasizes her focus on winning the election and expresses sympathy for those who are upset with her, but ultimately dismisses it as their problem. Despite some opposition, the overwhelming majority of Democrats at the convention are staunchly defending and celebrating Pelosi.
Pelosi, who has served as the top Democrat in the House for roughly 35 years, will have a speaking slot at the convention on Wednesday night. Her influential career, marked by being the first woman speaker of the House and guiding important legislations during the Obama and Biden administrations, extends beyond the halls of the Capitol.
Approaching the twilight of her political career, Pelosi appears to be more forthcoming and unburdened in voicing her thoughts. Many see her outspokenness during the Democratic Party's debate on Biden's future as shaping the electoral path for Harris, a fellow Californian. Critics, on the other hand, accuse Pelosi of being a master manipulator in shaping the narrative to her advantage.
At a delegation breakfast, Pelosi revealed that a House member from Illinois informed her that over 1,100 new volunteers had signed up to help their campaign after Harris was announced as the Democratic nominee. This demonstrates Pelosi's unwavering resolve to ensure that Democrats have a fighting chance to win back the House, regardless of the cost.
While attention has focused on those who may have influenced Biden's decision to step aside, such as Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Pelosi has refrained from disclosing the details of her conversation with Biden. However, she publicly expressed concerns relayed to her by "hundreds" of House Democrats and reopened the conversation surrounding Biden's candidacy.
Pelosi's role in Biden's decision has drawn mixed reactions, with Anita Dunn, former senior adviser to Biden, feeling that Pelosi betrayed him. Nevertheless, Pelosi remains highly regarded by the majority of California delegates, who proudly wear pins bearing her face and the nickname "The Godmother."
As the convention continues, all eyes will be on Pelosi's speech and the impact it may have on the Democratic Party. Ultimately, her tactics and influence are subject to debate, but there is no denying her significant presence and role in shaping the political landscape.