Special Poll
Nancy Pelosi, former House Speaker, has stirred unease among some Democrats for her public remarks about the party’s missteps in 2024. Many in the caucus feel it’s time for her to step back and allow Hakeem Jeffries, the current House Minority Leader, to take full charge. According to a senior Democrat, her unsolicited commentary isn’t just unhelpful but actively detrimental. Another member of the Congressional Black Caucus noted that Jeffries has shown her respect, but they feel she hasn’t reciprocated.
While Pelosi remains a powerful figure, commanding respect and a degree of apprehension among those she led for two decades, frustration with her grows in private discussions within the caucus. The situation escalated after her interview with The New York Times, where she implied President Biden should have exited the presidential race earlier, suggesting it might have opened the door for other candidates. This sparked renewed blame games between Biden and Harris supporters. Even though the full transcript later included more nuanced comments, the initial remarks ignited a political firestorm.
Some Democrats, however, quietly supported her assertiveness earlier this year when she helped nudge Biden out of the campaign, prioritizing the party’s need to secure victory over personal feelings. Pelosi, known for her directness, had remarked, “We just have to win the election,” showing little concern for any bruised egos.
Amidst this tension, Jeffries’ allies point to his accomplishments, particularly the party’s gains in New York. Pelosi herself acknowledged his success in her interview, praising his leadership. Her spokesperson reiterated her pride in Jeffries and the progress the party has made under his direction. Despite this, disappointment lingers over unmet expectations in California, where Democrats managed to unseat only one Republican instead of the anticipated five.
In a recent caucus meeting, Jeffries took responsibility for the party’s shortcomings, emphasizing his role as leader. However, frustrations persist about Pelosi’s reluctance to fully relinquish the spotlight. As one Democratic lawmaker noted, this transition has been challenging for her, but it’s essential for her to embrace her new role and support the current leadership rather than overshadow it.