Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi: Congress as a Cornerstone of American Democracy
Nancy Pelosi
The founders called Congress the “first among equals,” signifying its importance as a democratic institution. Speaker Emerita of the U.S. House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi reflects on the important role Congress plays in meeting Americans’ needs. What steps must be taken to accomplish that goal and invigorate trust among citizens?
This event is part of an ongoing series from the Karsh Institute of Democracy featuring conversations with leaders from both sides of the aisle on Capitol Hill. Previous speakers in the series include former Representative Abigail Spanberger (D), former Representative Will Hurd (R), Representative Chip Roy (R), and Senator John Cornyn (R).
Registration is required to attend this event. Doors open at 1:00 PM; please arrive at least 30 minutes early to account for security at the entrance. To provide a safe environment for guests and to ease entry, all bags must be clear and no larger than 12" x 6" x 12", or a one-gallon, clear, resealable plastic storage bag (per person). No backpacks will be permitted. A small clutch wallet no larger than 4.5" x 6.5" (which does not have to be clear) is also allowed.
Speakers
Nancy Pelosi
Speaker Emerita of the U.S. House of Representatives
U.S. Representative for California’s 11th Congressional District
Nancy Pelosi
Speaker Emerita of the U.S. House of Representatives
U.S. Representative for California’s 11th Congressional District
Nancy Pelosi served as the 52nd Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives and made history in 2007 as the first woman to hold the position. She again served as Speaker beginning in 2019, becoming the first person in more than six decades to regain the role. Over her career, Pelosi led House Democrats for 20 years and played a central role in shaping major legislative achievements, including the Affordable Care Act, the American Rescue Plan, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act. In recognition of her leadership, she was inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame and awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2024.
Representing San Francisco in Congress for more than three decades, Pelosi currently serves as Speaker Emerita. Throughout her career, she has been a leading advocate for democratic institutions, the rule of law, economic opportunity, health care access, climate action, and civil rights. She is widely regarded as one of the most consequential legislative leaders in modern American history.
Website: https://pelosi.house.gov/biography