Nancy Pelosi suggests that a comprehensive analysis is needed to understand Trump's victory, including demographics, messaging, and broader economic factors like the impact of COVID-19 on people's sense of security, inflation, and cost of living. She emphasizes that pocketbook issues, or 'kitchen table' concerns, played a significant role.
Pelosi draws parallels between the 2010 midterms and the 2024 election, noting that public perception of economic policies, such as the TARP bill, influenced voter behavior. She highlights the importance of effectively communicating legislative achievements to the public to ensure they understand how policies impact their lives.
Pelosi believes communication played a significant role in the Democrats' loss of working-class voters. She points out that Republicans outperformed Democrats on social media, and many voters now receive news through digital platforms rather than traditional media. She stresses the need for Democrats to adapt and improve their messaging strategies to reach voters where they are.
Pelosi highlights several legislative achievements under the Biden administration, including the creation of 16 million jobs, the rescue package addressing COVID-19, the bipartisan infrastructure bill, the CHIPS Act, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), and the PACT Act for veterans. She emphasizes the importance of these policies in improving economic and health outcomes for Americans.
Pelosi defines the 'art of power' as something that springs from the people and consensus, rather than being imposed from above. She contrasts this with Trump's approach, which she describes as the 'force of power,' emphasizing the importance of democratic principles and the role of government in addressing societal challenges.
Pelosi identifies economic concerns, such as inflation, cost of living, and job security, as core issues affecting voter behavior in the 2024 election. She also notes the impact of cultural issues, including abortion rights, climate change, and gun violence prevention, on voter decisions.
Pelosi states that she does not take personal attacks personally, emphasizing the importance of knowing one's purpose ('why') in politics. She acknowledges the rough nature of the political arena and the need to remain focused on one's goals, particularly when advocating for policies that benefit children and families.
Pelosi believes that the 2024 election posed a threat to American democracy, particularly in terms of free and fair elections, the peaceful transfer of power, and the rule of law. She stresses the importance of protecting democratic institutions and ensuring that voters understand the stakes of their choices.
One of the most formidable House speakers ever to hold the gavel talks with Jonathan Capehart about wielding power and winning and losing in the 2024 election.
Conversation recorded on November 21, 2024 at Global Women’s Summit