Nancy Pelosi Reflects on Trump’s Election Victory and Kamala Harris’s Campaign

Nancy Pelosi Reflects on Donald Trump’s Election Victory

Throughout Donald Trump’s presidency, few Democratic figures have been as prominent in opposition as Nancy Pelosi. Serving first as the House minority leader and subsequently as the House speaker during Trump’s initial term, Pelosi played a pivotal role in two impeachment proceedings against him. Her memorable act of tearing up Trump’s State of the Union address underscored her resistance to his administration. Furthermore, she was among those targeted during the harrowing attack on the Capitol on January 6, an event that profoundly marked her political career. Pelosi has consistently vowed to prevent Trump from returning to the White House, and she was instrumental in persuading President Biden to step back from his campaign this summer, allowing another Democrat the opportunity to challenge Trump.

Fast forward to the recent election results, and the outcome is clear. Vice President Kamala Harris faced a significant defeat on Tuesday, with Republicans reclaiming control of the Senate. While the House results remain unconfirmed, it appears likely that the GOP will hold sway in that chamber as well. Trump made significant gains across the country, even in traditionally Democratic strongholds like New York and New Jersey. Now, he stands as the president-elect, equipped with a broad mandate and intentions to dismantle many of the legislative accomplishments achieved under Pelosi and the Democratic leadership.

Listen to the Conversation With Nancy Pelosi

The former House Speaker shares her thoughts on Donald Trump’s election victory, Kamala Harris’s candidacy, and the future trajectory of the Democratic Party.

In her first extensive interview following the Democrats’ electoral setback, Pelosi met with me at The New York Times office in Washington on Thursday evening. As many Democratic voters and leaders grapple with the implications of the election results, Pelosi appeared reluctant to acknowledge the full weight of the party’s electoral defeat, dismissing criticisms regarding the direction of the party.

First of all, obviously a huge disappointment for you and the Democrats. How are you feeling?

My sentiments are mixed. On a presidential level, I feel a deep sadness for the American people. The policies that the president-elect has proposed, if they mirror his first term, are likely to benefit the wealthy at the expense of working families. Politically, I am immensely proud of Kamala Harris; she has put forth an inspiring agenda for the future. Her campaign was not just a list of objectives but a meaningful vision for the American populace. She instilled hope in many with her dignity and grace, and I commend her for that. The people have spoken, and Donald Trump has emerged victorious; we will now facilitate a peaceful transfer of power in our nation.

You were at Harris’s concession speech on Wednesday afternoon. Have you spoken to her since the election, and if so, what was that conversation like? What is she feeling at this moment?

Yes, I have spoken with her. I expressed our pride in her efforts and thanked her for offering hope with such remarkable dignity. It’s important to recognize that it takes time to process an election’s outcome. Understanding the intricacies of what transpired requires reflection. While she is absorbing the results, she accepts the reality of the situation. Kamala is a personal friend of mine, and I hold her in high regard. The conversation was emotional, balancing praise for her patriotic leadership with a sense of sadness for her personal journey.