WASHINGTON (AP) — Nancy Pelosi is bringing her history-making career in the U.S. House to an end, leaving behind a linguistic legacy that resonates throughout Congress and beyond.
The enduring leadership of the first woman to become Speaker of the House can not only be seen but also heard. The unique phrases she employs—her Pelosi-isms—have shaped her time in office and become integral to the broader political discourse.
Know your power, Pelosi declared in a video address announcing her decision to not seek re-election, simultaneously referencing her signature phrase while calling her constituents in San Francisco to action.
In a time where the Democratic Party is facing turmoil, searching for strong leadership and contending with the challenges posed by figures like President Donald Trump, Pelosi's memorable phrases serve as poignant reminders of the significance of language in politics. They act as a unifying force, encapsulating a shared vision and values, and guiding those navigating the political landscape.
As Pelosi, at age 85, prepares for this new chapter—finishing her final year in Congress—her words highlight the legacy of the first female House speaker, providing touchstones for those who will lead after her.
‘Know your why’
That's very important, Pelosi explained. When I left home to run for Congress, I had to know why I was doing that. She acknowledged the harsh realities of politics, especially for women, stressing the importance of understanding one's motivation. My 'why' was that 1 in 5 children in America lives in poverty, goes to sleep hungry at night, she said.
‘Throw a punch — for the children’
Pelosi adapted Theodore Roosevelt's famed speech about being the man in the arena into her own mantra, which emphasizes the necessity of action: You have to be ready to take a punch. You have to be ready to throw a punch—for the children.
‘Diversity is our strength. Unity is our power.’
As she describes Congress as a reflection of the U.S., she expressed the importance of unity amid diversity: We take pride in our diversity, but unless we’re unified we’re not going to achieve our goals. That’s something people should fear: it’s our strength.
‘Mr. President, don’t characterize the strength that I bring’
During a tense Oval Office meeting with President Trump regarding a government shutdown, Pelosi stood her ground against his dismissive comments, stating her role and importance decisively before leaving, a powerful image of her leadership.
‘Don’t agonize, organize’
Adapting a phrase popularized by feminist leader Florynce “Flo” Kennedy, Pelosi urged action rather than inaction, stating: The most important thing is time, the most precious commodity of all. So why are you using your time, agonizing over this? We organize.
’Treat everyone as a friend, but know who your friends are’
Recalling advice from the late Rep. Lindy Boggs, Pelosi remarked that every person could be a valuable ally, and knowing how to engage with them could influence political outcomes.
‘E Pluribus Unum’
Engaging with foundational American principles, Pelosi invoked the motto E Pluribus Unum, emphasizing unity in diversity, while drawing inspiration from the national anthem: We have to prove 'through the night that our flag is still there.'
‘Recreate to recreate...’
Pelosi's unique twist on the concept of renewal encouraged members to recharge before returning to their battles, while also acknowledging the importance of perseverance in the political arena.
‘...‘Resting is rusting’
Lastly, she cautioned against complacency in politics: Resting is rusting—strictly for me. As she prepares to step back, her words remain a testament to her unwavering commitment to service and challenges ahead.
