Speaker Nancy Pelosi has led the House Democrats for two decades and is the first woman to hold the speakership.
Pelosi is now embracing Eric Swalwell’s daughter — a moment reminiscent of when she called all the children present in the chamber to the dais when she was sworn in as speaker.
Speaker Pelosi, having concluded her speech, now embraces members of the California delegation. She is being swarmed by members kissing her on the cheek and giving her hugs.
“A new day is dawning on the horizon,” Pelosi says, underscoring the monumental void she is leaving in Democratic leadership
“For me the hour's 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,” Pelosi said.
Pelosi’s staff members are seated in the gallery and — unaccustomed to such public recognition — are now on their feet for applause from lawmakers.
The entire chamber is on its feet, including Republicans, to applaud the speaker. They are now applauding her family, seated in the gallery for the occasion.
are wiping away tears, particularly as she makes mention of her husband, Paul, who is recovering from a vicious attack at their home.
Pelosi says she will remain in the House as a rank-and-file member, representing her constituents. But she will not seek a leadership position.
Camera flashes go off in a back row of the chamber as Pelosi’s remarks turn to the future.
“Homemaker to House speaker,” Pelosi says in charting her political path.
No sign yet, however, of Representative Kevin McCarthy of California, who has been chosen by the majority Republicans to be the next speaker in January. He has a notoriously poor relationship with Pelosi.
NYT