House Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced her resignation as Democratic Party leader after nearly two decades in the job.
The news came after Republicans narrowly won control of the House of Representatives. In the meantime, the Democratic Party grasps control of the Senate. As a result, different parties control each house. Nancy served as a brave symbol of female political leadership. Pelosi, on the other hand, announced her possible withdrawal in 2018. When she was voted into power, she told the Democratic Party that she would stand down in 2022.
Many Democrats went into a frenzy of speculation about a possible replacement with Pelosi gone. According to sources, party members are expected to vote for New York Representative Hakeem Jeffries. The Democrats, however, will vote on it at the end of the month. Pelosi remained silent when asked who she would endorse. On the other hand, House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer and House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn backed Jeffries. Following Pelosi, the two leaders also announced their resignations.
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Jeffries could replace Pelosi
“If she steps aside, I’m very clear that Hakeem Jeffries is the person I will be voting for and leading the Congressional Black Caucus to vote for. Of course, I don’t always speak for everybody. Still, I’m very comfortable saying I believe that every member of the Congressional Black Caucus would vote for Hakeem Jeffries,” said Ohio representative Joyce Beatty.
“Nonetheless, a great deal is at stake because we’ll be in a presidential election. So my decision will again be rooted in the wishes of my family and the wishes of my caucus. But none of it will be very much considered until we see the outcome of all of this. And there are all kinds of ways to exert influence,” she added.
On the other hand, Jeffries did not respond to questions about a possible Democratic leadership run. Instead, he stated that now was not the moment to respond. Instead, he contends that people should first honor Pelosi. Pelosi, as a leader, led and inspired many, including women aspiring to enter the US political landscape.
“Let’s spend the day at this moment continuing to process the historic nature of Speaker Pelosi and the opportunity that we’ve all had to serve with her. And it’s been an amazing experience,” Jeffries said.
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Making a mark in US politics
Pelosi brought about many changes in US politics. In 2007, she took the gavel while standing on the podium surrounded by children. During her tenure, Pelosi prioritized progressive child care, climate change, and health care legislation. Pelosi vigorously advocated for these policies for children to live in a better world.
“I’ve been elected for 26 years. I’ve been doing this for a while. I believe she has been the most effective speaker and leader the House of Representatives has ever had. To me, every moment has been a blessing and an honor to serve with her,” said Tony Cardenas.
“Because of Nancy Pelosi, the lives of millions and millions of Americans are better, even in districts represented by Republicans who voted against her bills and too often vilified her. That’s Nancy — always working for the dignity of all of the people,” wrote a White House statement.
