CHICAGO — Nancy Pelosi began her speech at the Democratic National Convention with heartfelt thanks to President Joe Biden, acknowledging his legislative achievements despite the doubts she had about his campaign that led to his decision to withdraw from the race.
“Thank you, Joe,” Pelosi stated, before emphasizing her confidence in Vice President Kamala Harris, saying, “I know that Vice President Harris is ready to take us to new heights.” This moment anticipated a pivotal change in the party’s strategy for the upcoming election against Republican Donald Trump, sidestepping the difficult discussions that necessitated Harris’s ascension to the nomination.
Earlier that day in Chicago, when asked about her conversation with Biden that influenced his decision, Pelosi initially hesitated to provide details. She maintained that the choice was ultimately Biden’s but admitted the necessity of doing whatever it takes to prevent Trump from returning to power. “I wanted very much to protect his legacy,” she explained, adding that the party required a stronger campaign.
While Pelosi did not explicitly claim to be the driving force behind Biden’s withdrawal and Harris’s nomination, her presence in Chicago drew a more energized crowd than might have been expected. Many lawmakers who were previously hesitant to support Biden were now enthusiastic about Harris and Pelosi.
“Speaker Pelosi is someone who reflects the interests of the caucus,” said Rep. Elissa Slotkin of Michigan, highlighting Pelosi’s role in communicating the widespread concerns of Democratic lawmakers. Democratic strategist Adrian Hemond noted Pelosi’s significant influence, describing her as “the most consequential Democrat of the last 50 years.”
Pelosi is known for her ability to balance a tough demeanor with a nurturing approach, famously said to keep chocolates and a baseball bat in her office. At 84, she has focused her efforts on addressing childhood poverty and advocates for an active, tough-minded political approach. Speaking about her new book, “The Art of Power,” she emphasized the importance of keeping voters engaged with critical issues.
Biden has made it clear that his choice to exit the race was a personal one, stating that no one influenced his decision. He confirmed to reporters that he had not spoken to Pelosi since his dropout announcement, maintaining his narrative of independent decision-making.
While Biden’s exit from the presidential race has changed their dynamic, Pelosi remains a vital figure in the Democratic Party, regarded as maintaining significant influence behind the scenes. Democrats now hope, as Pelosi has in the past, that making difficult choices can lead to the best outcomes for the party.