Pelosi says she will not seek role in Democratic House leadership

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Nancy Pelosi, the first female speaker of the House of Representatives, spoke on the chamber floor Thursday and said she would not seek to be Democratic leader in the next Congress. The announcement came after Republicans won enough seats to take control of the House.

Video Transcript

NANCY PELOSI: Scripture teaches us that for everything, there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven. My friends, no matter what title you all, my colleagues, have bestowed upon me-- Speaker, Leader, Whip-- there is no greater official honor for me than to stand on this floor and to speak for the people of San Francisco. This I will continue to do as a member of the House, speaking for the people of San Francisco, serving the great state of California, and defending our Constitution.

And with great confidence in our caucus, I will not seek reelection to Democratic leadership in the next Congress. For me, the hour has come for a new generation to lead the Democratic caucus that I so deeply respect, and I'm grateful that so many are ready and willing to shoulder this awesome responsibility.