Nancy Pelosi’s latest video announcement, posted by her staff, was undoubtedly intended to showcase her enduring political vigor as she heads back to Congress. But instead of being hailed as a triumphant return, it has mainly served as a reminder that some political figures simply refuse to exit the stage. In the clip, Pelosi proudly declares her mission to represent the people of San Francisco while championing the city’s notorious “values.” For many viewers, that proclamation lands less as a rallying cry and more as an ominous warning.
Perhaps aware of the mixed reception, Pelosi’s team wisely disabled comments on platforms like Instagram and X. Still, the internet found its voice elsewhere, with critics quick to dissect the video. Observers couldn’t help but point out the congresswoman’s age and recent health challenges, noting that her hip replacement surgery might have been a good time to consider stepping down. Calls for term limits resurfaced, as many questioned why someone approaching her 85th birthday continues to cling to political office.
Pelosi’s health issues have only amplified concerns about her ability to lead effectively. Her well-publicized fall, which led to a fractured hip, has become a symbol of what some see as her overstayed tenure. Despite these setbacks, she remains unapologetically vocal about bringing “San Francisco values” to Washington—a statement that critics argue underscores the city’s descent into chaos. San Francisco’s issues with crime, homelessness, and even the need for apps to navigate its sidewalk waste have become infamous, leaving many scratching their heads over Pelosi’s pride in her hometown’s example.
Even within her constituency, there’s growing disillusionment. Recent elections in the Bay Area saw a noticeable rejection of progressive policies, with voters ousting left-leaning candidates and pushing back against the soft-on-crime agenda. These shifts reflect a broader frustration with the kind of policies Pelosi continues to champion. Yet, her commitment to exporting these values nationwide remains unwavering, much to the chagrin of her critics.
As Pelosi embarks on her 20th term in Congress, questions about her legacy and the need for fresh leadership abound. By the end of this term, she will be nearing 90, a milestone that many argue should mark retirement, not reelection. To her detractors, her persistence is emblematic of the entrenched political establishment she claims to stand against. Whether her “San Francisco values” resonate beyond the confines of her coastal bubble is debatable—but for a growing number of Americans, it seems they’d rather pass on the offer.
On my way to Washington, DC to proudly represent the people of San Francisco and share our San Francisco values in the Congress of the United States. Thank you for giving me that honor! -NP pic.twitter.com/Ay8pGsNgDb
— Nancy Pelosi (@TeamPelosi) January 2, 2025
