As the Democrats prepare to take over the House in January, there is much ado about who should be the Speaker of the House. While I’m exceedingly grateful we are kicking Fascist Paul Ryan to the curb, should Nancy Pelosi resume her role as Speaker?
In a word, I offer an emphatic YES! I have been deeply troubled, disturbed, saddened, and pissed off at the manifestation yet again of misogyny. Again, it is painfully clear that the United States cannot tolerate a strong, smart, powerful, woman. While I agree with those who want a new guard ushered in, Pelosi has already demonstrated her commitment to succession planning and ensuring that women are being set up to succeed. I also applaud the mindfulness and strategic thinking of leaders like Maxine Waters, who said her efforts are best used as the Chair of the Financial Services Committee. I also applaud Marcia Fudge of Ohio who supported Pelosi and said where her efforts would be best used. Fudge was a name thrown into the bid for Speaker, and frankly, I would love to see her in that position, and again we see strategy and mindfulness at play, as Fudge will be the Chair of the House Administration sub-committee on Elections–fantastic! Please help Georgia and Florida. If we are to dismantle the autocratic/fascist government that 45 has laid the groundwork for, we must be strategic. But we must also resist buying into a misogynistic narrative.
Sadly, 32 Democrats voted against Pelosi (one should note that is 11 fewer than the number of Republicans that did not support Ayn Rand– oops, I mean Paul Ryan — for Speaker). Of course, one of those voices against Pelosi was Republican Kurt Schrader of Oregon–oops, I mean Democrat Kurt Schrader; it is exceedingly difficult to see where his loyalties lie. He reminds me of Zell Miller of Georgia, who purported to be a Democrat, but those of us paying attention were not fooled or surprised when he showed up as the keynote at the 2004 Republican National Convention throwing his support for George W. Bush–the good ole days when we thought there could be no one worse than Bush.
This mid-term election is sending the most diverse Democratic caucus ever to Washington, largely elected on a progressive, pro-health-care platform. As Speaker, Nancy Pelosi must recognize these facts and continue her commitment to progressive policies and new leadership opportunities for a broader spectrum of Democrats. In return, her caucus must recognize her strong, smart leadership; her clear focus and strong voice is one of the reasons that the Democrats flipped more seats than any time since Watergate. 45’s administration demands seasoned opposition leadership, which Pelosi can clearly supply. Over the next two years, let’s groom those who can move into leadership and help advance progressive causes that allow for greater equity for all people in the United States.
Social Justice For All 
Thank you for this — as always — insightful analysis. Nancy Pelosi should be congratulated for her stellar leadership and encouraged to share those skills with the up-and-coming members of her caucus. Any other stance is hard to square with anything other than misogyny.
Thank you, Bevan. Let us hope your voice is heard!! Peace, Michael.
You and many like you seem to be deaf towards the voice of the democratic socialists, of which Pelosi is not… She is part of the old guard, and unless you want the status quo, she is not my pick for speaker.
On Mon, Dec 3, 2018 at 7:46 AM Social Justice For All wrote:
> Michael Hulshof-Schmidt posted: “As the Democrats prepare to take over the > House in January, there is much ado about who should be the Speaker of the > House. While I’m exceedingly grateful we are kicking Fascist Paul Ryan to > the curb, should Nancy Pelosi resume her role as Speaker? In ” >
And whom would you like? It is interesting, as I feel you have cherry picked your reading of the article.
Al Franken…
I really like Al Franken, but I think it is time for a woman of color.
Thanks, Michael! I also wrote a piece about Pelosi, referencing Schrader, a member of No Labels that supported Trump in calling him a “problem solver.” I think that they’re still supporting Trump: that’s the reason for opposing Pelosi. – Nel Ward
Nel, thank you for reading and commenting. Schrader really is a disappointment.
Nancy Pelosi will go down as one of the greatest speakers, ever. She is a threat to weaker types and to the old boy network.
But she is phenomenal and has brilliant focus and ability to negotiate well. The ACA is as much hers as Obama’s.
She may not be at the extreme socialist end, but that is not necessary for being Speaker. She is ideal to manage the Senate and 45 while keeping the Democrats on track.
Thank you for your great commentary on the status of things. You highlight things I was not aware of but solidify your points.
We need more articulate men like you to present such a good presentation of the reality of the Congress and the misogyny that reeks in the hallowed halls and apparently in the hearts of too many Americans.
Thank you for sharing.
Thank you, L R Davis. You honor me with your words here. Yes, I do believe Pelosi will go down as one of the greatest speakers of all time. It hurts my heart to see how she is treated because of her identity as a woman, but that is where we are in the United States. Peace to you, Michael.