Consider This from NPR Nancy Pelosi announces end to nearly four decades in Congress
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Nov 6, 2025 In this insightful discussion, Susan Page, Washington bureau chief for USA Today and author of 'Madam Speaker,' dives into Nancy Pelosi's groundbreaking career. She highlights Pelosi's historic ascent to Speaker of the House and her pivotal role in passing the Affordable Care Act. Page explains how Pelosi's fearlessness shaped her early advocacy, cites her impact on women in politics, and addresses the complexity of her legacy amid partisanship. The conversation also touches on Pelosi's regret about retiring while Donald Trump remains a political force.
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Late Start, Long Career
- Nancy Pelosi ran for Congress at 47 after a dying incumbent urged her to run for the San Francisco seat.
- That push launched a nearly four-decade career that ended with her announcing she will not seek reelection.
Fearless Early Voice
- Pelosi showed early fearlessness by addressing stigmatized issues like AIDS from her first House speech.
- That willingness to tackle uncomfortable topics signaled the combative, effective leader she became.
A Singular Breakthrough
- Pelosi remains the only woman to lead one of the three co-equal branches of U.S. government as Speaker of the House.
- That singular achievement underscores both her significance and the persistent gender gap in top offices.
