The first and only woman to ever serve as House Speaker is stepping down. Nancy Pelosi announced Thursday that she would continue to serve in the House but not in a leadership role. Pelosi’s decision to step down comes amid Republicans narrowly winning the House majority. Her decision also comes as her husband Paul continues to recover from a brutal attack in October after an intruder entered their home looking for Pelosi. Afterward, she said the attack would impact her decision.

Pelosi was first elected speaker in 2007 and served until 2011. She was elected speaker again in 2019 after Democrats won back the House from Republicans. During that time, Pelosi made a deal to step down after four years. While serving as speaker, Pelosi’s latest accomplishments include passing a $1.9 trillion pandemic aid package and a $750 billion health care, energy, and climate bill. 

During her speech on the floor, Pelosi stated, “For me, the hour has come for a new generation to lead the Democratic caucus that I so deeply respect, and I am grateful that so many are ready and willing to shoulder this awesome responsibility. ” The new generation is prepared to take over. Talks of who will be Pelosi’s successor were in the works long before her announcement to step down. House Democrats will likely choose New York, Rep. Hakeem Jeffries. If so, he will claim the title as a first for a House Speaker, just like his predecessor. Jeffries will become the first black House Democratic leader. Thursday, Pelosi would not say who she would support as Democratic leader. Of course, who will take over as House Speaker will not be known until after the leadership elections on November 30th. 

Going forward, Pelosi can still fill a variety of roles. Political experts expect Pelosi to now operate in an advising role.

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