How Pelosi’s Approach to Power, Politics, and Leadership Earned Respect Despite Criticism
Nancy Pelosi has often been a polarizing figure in American politics. While she has had low approval ratings and high disapproval among many, both conservatives and liberals, her impact on the legislative process has left a lasting mark. Conservatives criticize her as a symbol of out-of-touch California liberalism, while many progressives view her as part of an older, less left-wing guard. Throughout her career, Pelosi has been accused of clinging to power, yet she has also been heralded for her unique ability to navigate Washington’s political challenges.
As a young man inspired by Barack Obama’s message of unity, I once found Pelosi’s style of politics too establishment and out of touch. Raised in a conservative environment, I struggled with the idea of a woman wielding power as decisively as she did. Initially, when I worked in the Obama administration, I felt disconnected from her approach, even if I acknowledged her pivotal role in passing the Affordable Care Act. During the Bush years, I wondered why she didn’t do more to challenge the administration’s actions on Iraq, and under Trump, I believed she was slow to hold him accountable for his behavior.
However, as my disillusionment with partisan politics grew, I shifted toward a more nuanced view. Over time, I came to recognize Pelosi’s profound understanding of the legislative process and her ability to unite Democrats to pass landmark laws. Behind Obama’s rhetorical flourish, it was Pelosi’s steady leadership and tactical acumen that helped ensure his policy successes, including the passage of the Affordable Care Act.
One particular moment stands out from November 2021, when Pelosi skillfully maneuvered her way through hours of negotiations to pass President Biden’s infrastructure bill. During that time, as progressives huddled in a room, their phones were left outside to avoid leaks or interruptions, yet one by one, their phones buzzed. Pelosi had been calling them relentlessly, using her influence to secure the votes needed for passage. This behind-the-scenes leadership was key to getting the bill through.
John Lawrence, a former Pelosi aide, pointed out that Pelosi’s deep understanding of the process, the substance of legislation, and her relationships with members of Congress gave her an unparalleled advantage in managing the House. She was able to wield influence and keep her caucus unified, a crucial skill for passing transformative legislation.
While Pelosi wasn’t always the most captivating communicator, she faced moments where her tone or actions didn’t resonate, such as when she recited a poem in response to the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade. Additionally, she prevented a measure that would have banned members of Congress and their spouses from trading stocks.
Perhaps the most poignant image of Pelosi’s leadership came from the January 6 hearings, where footage showed her frantically working the phones to coordinate efforts to secure the Capitol as insurrectionists stormed it. The attack on her husband by a right-wing assailant underscores the personal toll Pelosi has faced due to the vitriol directed at her.
In retrospect, while I didn’t always agree with her approach, I now recognize Nancy Pelosi’s extraordinary ability to shape policy and protect democratic institutions, making her one of the most effective leaders in modern American politics.
