Administration of Joseph R. Biden, Jr., 2022

November 17, 2022

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 God 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 2 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 COVIDâ19. 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 30 yearsâfor 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 Nancyâalways 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 6. 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.

NOTE: The statement referred to Paul F. Pelosi, Sr., husband of Speaker Pelosi.

Categories: Statements by the President : Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi's decision not to seek reelection to House Democratic leadership.

Names: Biden, Jill T.; Pelosi, Nancy; Pelosi, Paul F., Sr.

Subjects: 2021 civil unrest and violence at U.S. Capitol; Climate change; Economic stimulus legislation; Gun violence, prevention efforts; House Democratic Caucus; Prescription drug costs, reduction efforts; Semiconductor manufacturing; Speaker of the House of Representatives; U.S. servicemembers, environmental exposures in war zones.

DCPD Number: DCPD202201057.