OPINION | Americans will never forget Nancy Pelosi’s legacy

Staff Columnist Paul Beer
January 11, 2023

Nancy Pelosi approval By the end of her term in December 2022, it was heavily skewed between the extremes — 41% rated it somewhat or very unfavorable, and 48% rated it somewhat or very unfavorable.This may only represent the partisan division that has engulfed american politicsAfter 20 years of leading the Democratic Party, Pelosi finally stepped down and entrenched a new generation.

Opponents from the right, and even the left, may see Pelosi as another cog in the political machine. criticism — but her legacy is much more. Pelosi’s accomplishments in and out of Congress, including her social justice work, have cemented her status as one of the greatest speakers of our time.

Pelosi has represented numerous districts in California covering the San Francisco area. 35 yearsShe quickly rose to her feet and became the whip of the Democratic Party, eventually becoming the face of the Democratic Party post-9/11. glass ceilingis what makes Pelosi so important — her presence as a strong female leader in a predominantly male governing body will always be understated.

When Pelosi first took office, Democrats elected 52 women to the House. when she leaves there are 91At the same time, Republicans have only about six women elected to Congress. Through Pelosi’s strong leadership and commitment to women politicians across the country, the delegates look stronger than ever.

Her achievements as a legislator are often credited to the people of her time.nevertheless obama care Pelosi, touted as the eponymous achievement, was paramount to its success. Although controversial, she gave in to protecting abortion rights in the bill and persuaded her more conservative Democratic colleagues. not exist This transaction did not occur today. This monumental law is still the closest America has to universal health care.Through countless other bills that have guided Americans Great recession, iraq war And with Trump and Biden’s presidency, Pelosi has cemented herself as a key piece of the puzzle.

Aside from being a legislative leader, Pelosi is one of the most powerful and daring American human rights defenders abroad, even risking her own life. In the summer of 2022, she embarked on her one of the most dangerous trips the speaker has ever taken. Taiwan protest against brutal treatment Island of. Despite threats by Chinese forces to shoot down her plane, Pelosi landed safely, met with Taiwanese leaders, and was met with overwhelming applause. The 82-year-old woman from America had just committed her greatest sin. ideological blow China in recent history.

In 1991, two years after the Tiananmen Square massacre, she and other Democratic colleagues banner In a square honoring the victims and all those in China fighting for freedom. Pelosi is another example of ageist criticism failing. Her age has never been an obstacle to her humanitarian and legislative goals.

Finally, Pelosi is one of the politicians who spoke most out loud about the January 6th riots. As the key leader protecting every member of Congress and former Vice President Mike Pence on the day of the attack, Pelosi always found herself the only rational person in the room. Always stand up to Trump. state Then, “I want to hit him.” she also impeachment He twice—important despite almost symbolic results.

She now seems to be one of the few people who wants to keep talking about Jan. 6. Pelosi hit back at McCarthy in the lead-up to the House Speaker’s vote under the new Republican majority. call A recent blanket bill was described as “one of the most shameful acts” and recalls the 6th of January riots. As we close out congressional hearings on the issue, Pelosi will keep reminding us of exactly what happened that day, as many times as we need to hear.

Criticisms and criticisms of Pelosi are fierce, and many of them remain valid all the time.Some of these may be directed at her role as a legislator, when Pelosi frequently yielded to more moderate members of her party to keep legislation moving. Despite being an advocate for rights, she and all Democrats failed protect it Before the Supreme Court dismissed Roe v. Wade.Also, Pelosi and her husband Paul have been accused of insider Stock tradingThese shady deals and oversights are highly condemnable.

No politician is perfect and will never be, but Pelosi is one of the most effective Speakers of the House in modern history.

Paul Beer writes about political issues and reads too many album reviews. Reply to him (or send him music recommendations). [email protected]