On January 6, 2021, Nancy Pelosi experienced a frightening moment when a mob rioted through the Capitol building. Nearly two years later, political violence struck closer to home when an intruder targeted her husband at their San Francisco residence. The attacker, after asking for Nancy, proceeded to bludgeon Paul Pelosi with a hammer, reminiscent of the chilling chants heard during the Capitol riot.
Pelosi’s new book, “The Art of Power, My Story as America’s First Woman Speaker of the House,” delves into her extensive legislative career while also shedding light on the personal turmoil surrounding the assault on her husband. She emphasizes the urgent need to curb the escalating threats and attacks that are deterring individuals from entering public service due to fears for their safety and that of their loved ones.
Throughout her book, Pelosi chronicles her remarkable journey from a housewife to becoming the first female Speaker of the House. Despite no longer holding a leadership position, Pelosi remains actively involved in politics and is seeking reelection to the House this coming fall. Reflecting on her time in office, she underlines the alarming impact of the current atmosphere of political violence on civic life and public service.
Recounting her harrowing experiences during the Capitol riot, Pelosi describes being evacuated from the House chamber as rioters breached the building. She vividly recalls the chaos and delay in bringing in National Guard troops to restore order, highlighting the grave threats faced by political figures and their families in such volatile situations.
The aftermath of the attack on her husband left a lasting impact on Pelosi’s family, with her husband undergoing surgeries and facing ongoing health challenges. The trauma extended to her children, who were deeply affected by the incident and the subsequent callous remarks and jokes made by some politicians and their supporters.
Pelosi uses her book to call for a change in the prevailing narrative surrounding public service, asserting that individuals should not have to sacrifice their safety or that of their families when engaging in politics. Highlighting the need to address the toxic political environment in the country, Pelosi stresses the importance of creating a safer and more respectful space for all individuals involved in public life.
