November 17, 2022
Statement by President Joe Biden On Speaker Nancy Pelosi Stepping Down from Democratic Leadership in the House of Representatives
When I think of Nancy Pelosi, I think of dignity.
History
will note she is the most consequential Speaker of the House of
Representatives in our history. There are countless examples of how she
embodies the obligation of elected officials to uphold their oath to G/d
and country to ensure our democracy delivers and remains a beacon to
the world. In everything she does, she reflects a dignity in her actions
and a dignity she sees in the lives of the people of this nation.
In
2007, she made history as the first woman Speaker, but that was just
the beginning of the history she has made during her four terms. I know
because I’ve seen her in action during my career as Senator, Vice
President, and now as President. With Nancy, you see a father’s daughter
who learned by his side how to win and govern. With her leading the
way, you never worry about whether a bill will pass. If she says she has
the votes, she has the votes. Every time.
History will record
her leadership with President Obama to rescue the economy in crisis from
the Great Recession. With her sheer will, passing the Affordable Care
Act to ensure health care is a right not a privilege. Ending Don’t Ask
Don’t Tell so patriotic Americans can serve the country they love no
matter who they love. The list goes on, including her leadership in
defending democracy and advancing human rights around the world.
In
the first two years of my presidency, she is a singular force securing
once-in-a-generation bills that will define our nation for decades to
come. The American Rescue Plan to get us through COVID-19. The
Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to rebuild our roads and bridges. The
CHIPS and Science Act to ensure the most advanced manufacturing is done
here in America. The most significant gun safety law in nearly thirty
years – for the children. One of the most significant bills helping
veterans and their families exposed to toxic materials. And, the
Inflation Reduction Act that took on Big Pharma and won, and reflects
the most aggressive action ever to tackle the climate crisis.
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 vilify her. That’s Nancy – always working for
the dignity of all of the people. And, as a fierce defender of democracy
through our laws, history will also note her fierceness and resolve to
protect our democracy from the violent, deadly insurrection of January 6th.
It’s a threat of political violence and intimidation that continues and
she and her family know all too well, but that will never stop her from
serving our nation.
She might be stepping down from her
leadership role in the House Democratic Caucus, but she will never
waiver in protecting our sacred democracy.
Nancy Pelosi is first,
last, and always for the people. Jill and I count Nancy, Paul, and
their family among our dearest friends. As a nation, we owe her a deep
debt of gratitude for her service, her patriotism, and above all, her
absolute dignity.
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