U.S. Representative Terri Sewell, D-Alabama, released the following statement Thursday regarding the decision by Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi to not seek reelection:
“Speaker Nancy Pelosi is a trailblazing public servant, a brilliant strategist, an accomplished change-agent, a champion for children and families, and one of the most effective leaders our nation has ever seen. Throughout her nearly four decades in Congress, Speaker Pelosi has been at the forefront of virtually every modern legislative victory for the American people. Her efforts delivered affordable health care to millions, lifted countless children out of poverty, advanced human rights across the globe, and rescued our economy from the brink of collapse.
“Under Speaker Pelosi’s leadership, the House passed the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act not once but twice, owing to her fierce dedication to protecting the right to vote. She has toured Alabama’s 7th Congressional District on numerous occasions alongside myself and the late John Lewis, and she continues to make sure that our democracy is protected and our civil rights legacy is never forgotten.
“While she will be dearly missed in the halls of Congress, I have no doubt that Speaker Pelosi will remain a powerful force for good. I wish her the best as she concludes her season of service and begins a well-deserved retirement.
“Thank you, Madam Speaker.”
