Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, aged 83, has announced her intention to run for reelection in the U.S. House in the upcoming November election, as revealed in a statement on X.
Pelosi, a California Democrat, emphasized the need for her continued representation of San Francisco values and her dedication to America’s recovery and the principles of liberty and justice for all.
This announcement has generated mixed reactions among social media users, especially regarding concerns about her age.
Many also believe that it’s time to introduce term and age limit for senators.
Pelosi’s decision to seek reelection extends her extensive career on Capitol Hill, dating back to her victory in a special election in June 1987. Throughout her career, she has been a significant figure in Democratic politics, both in Washington and on the national stage. Pelosi holds the distinction of being the first woman to serve as House Speaker, a position she held from 2007 to 2011 and then reclaimed in 2019. She relinquished the speakership and Democratic leadership in January when Republicans gained control of the House, with Hakeem Jeffries taking her place.
Despite questions regarding her future in Congress following a brutal attack on her husband, Paul, in their San Francisco home in October 2022, Pelosi has decided to run for reelection.
In a previous interview with CNN’s Chris Wallace, Pelosi stated that she didn’t miss being Speaker, although she acknowledged the honor and prestige that came with the position. She expressed love for her fellow members and the institution but did not feel a longing to return to the role.
Pelosi’s decision to run for reelection comes at a time when there is increased scrutiny surrounding the age, health, and capacity to serve of several prominent politicians on Capitol Hill. This includes Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, aged 81, and Senator Dianne Feinstein, aged 90, both of whom have faced questions about their fitness for office.
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Pelosi has defended Feinstein against calls from some fellow Democrats to step down due to health concerns. She has argued that criticism of Feinstein is exacerbated by gender bias and suggested that male senators with similar or worse health issues would not face the same scrutiny.
