Statement on Re-election as House Democratic Leader

Pelosi: Statement on Re-election as House Democratic Leader

Washington, D.C. - House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi spoke at a news conference in the Capitol this morning after being unanimously re-elected to serve as House Democratic Leader in the 109th Congress. She was joined by the entire Democratic Leadership team, all re-elected by acclamation, Whip Steny Hoyer, Caucus Chair Bob Menendez, Caucus Vice-Chair James E. Clyburn, and Assistant to the Minority Leader John Spratt. Below are Pelosi's remarks:

"We are a little bit behind schedule because we just came from the most invigorating House Democratic Caucus I have ever attended. We started at 9 o'clock this morning, and I am very pleased to announce that our leadership was elected unanimously by acclamation. The unity that we have had for the past two years was reflected in those votes.

"But that was just the start of it. We heard from a Caucus that was eager to move forward, to move ahead. Democrats are going forward with our initiative for prosperity and for security for our country. Prosperity where we create jobs, and expand access to educational opportunity, and expand access to health care in our country. Security from terrorism at home and abroad, the best prepared military that is possible, as well as security in our neighborhoods, safe and clean neighborhoods. And accountability for how we do this in a fiscally-sound way.

"We talked about issues, and we talked some about politics, because we were welcoming our new Democratic Members. But it was very exhilarating.

"As one who took the helm of this party two years ago and tried to persuade people that Democrats could take back this House of Representatives, coming through this election now, I can say without any question that this Democratic Caucus is now ready to do that. We have fought the fight. We have been out there. We have introduced 15 magnificent new Democratic Members of the House.

"And we are in a place now where we see our moment. Our moment to make the contrast between the Democrats and the Republicans in the Congress of the United States. Our moment to find common ground with the Republicans wherever possible. Our moment to take all of this to a higher level for the American people."

"I am honored to lead this Caucus, which is one of the greatest forces for integrity, idealism, and innovation in our country.

"Democrats will continue the historic unity we had this year. We will continue to highlight the differences between Democrats and Republicans. And our New Partnership of America's Future will be the foundation of our legislative agenda. We will always be true to its core values of security, prosperity, opportunity, community, fairness, and accountability."