Nancy Pelosi, the Democrat from California, has declared her intention to run for her 20th term in the U.S. House of Representatives in the upcoming 2024 elections.
Making the announcement via X, previously known as Twitter, the 83-year-old representative of California’s 11th District, centered in San Francisco, expressed her commitment to the values of San Francisco and the nation. Pelosi emphasized the need for the U.S. to showcase its enduring values of liberty and justice. She stated, “Our nation requires us to exemplify that our principles remain unyielding. Hence, I’m contesting for another term and seek your support.”
Last year, Pelosi handed over the leadership reins of the House Democratic Caucus to Hakeem Jeffries from New York, currently the House Minority Leader. While Pelosi is now part of the general members in the House, her colleagues often refer to her as “Speaker Emerita” to honor her three and a half decades of service.
Having first joined Congress in 1987, Pelosi broke barriers by becoming the first woman to hold the Speaker’s position in 2007 and reclaimed the role in 2019. During her leadership, she witnessed major legislative wins, like the introduction of the Affordable Care Act, and challenging periods, including two impeachment trials against former President Donald Trump.
This announcement quashes any rumors of Pelosi’s retirement. However, it also highlights the ongoing debate about the age of many of the nation’s leaders, such as Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), and 80-year-old President Biden.
Mitch McConnell, at 81, stirred discussions about age after appearing momentarily unresponsive in a recent press event. Despite this, his doctor confirmed his health to be sound after thorough examinations. This event spurred comments from figures like Republican presidential hopeful Nikki Haley, who made a jest about the Senate being an “exclusive retirement community.” Additionally, Rep. John James from Michigan has proposed a constitutional amendment to set age limits for federal positions, suggesting a cap for those 75 or older.
Concerns about age haven’t spared President Biden, with a Wall Street Journal survey indicating a majority of Democrats believe he might be too senior for another presidential term. Defending Biden, Pelosi remarked that age is subjective, praising the president’s experience and wisdom. She jokingly referred to Biden as “a young man in her eyes.”
