Defending The Promise of America
The American Promise
As America marked the 250th anniversary of our independence, we reflected on the ideals that have guided our nation since our Founding: that all are created equal and endowed with unalienable rights. While our Founders declared those timeless principles, they also entrusted future generations with the sacred responsibility of democracy—of constantly striving to build a more perfect Union.
Their faith has sustained our nation through centuries of triumph and trial, reminding us that America is strongest when we are guided by faith, charity and hope. As we look to the next 250 years, may we remain committed to liberty and justice for all, remembering that the work of democracy is never finished.
Speaker Pelosi delivers remarks in front of a portrait of George Washington in the Capitol in 2019.
Pillar of Our Democracy
This week marked 158 years since the ratification of the 14th Amendment—a promise that every person born on American soil is an American citizen, equal under the law. That constitutional guarantee has helped define our nation for generations and remains a fundamental pillar of our Democracy.
Despite the President's failed attempts to erase birthright citizenship, the 14th Amendment endures. As we honor this anniversary, we are reminded that the Constitution is strongest when we defend its promises and protect the rights it guarantees for every American.
Speaker Emerita Pelosi stands outside the Supreme Court before reading the text of the 14th Amendment.
Families Before Politics
This week, I joined MomsRising Executive Director Kristin Rowe-Finkbeiner to pen an op-ed for USA TODAY to sound the alarm on America's growing health care affordability crisis. As families struggle to pay for coverage, Republicans have chosen to slash Medicaid, raise costs for working people and prioritize tax breaks for the wealthy and military escalation over the health of the American people.
The resources to lower costs and expand care are there—we simply need the political will to put families first. Congress must reverse these harmful cuts, permanently extend Affordable Care Act premium tax credits and recommit to making quality, affordable health care accessible to every American.
Speaker Emerita Pelosi greets a child beside Kristin Rowe-Finkbeiner at a MomsRising event in May of 2025.
Voice of Compassion
It brought me personal joy and peace to send my warmest birthday wishes to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, whose leadership has inspired generations. His unwavering commitment to compassion, dignity and nonviolence continues to serve as a beacon of hope for people around the world.
It has been an honor to stand with His Holiness and the Tibetan people as they continue their struggle to preserve their religion, language, culture and identity. On his birthday and every day, I remain grateful for his extraordinary friendship and moral leadership. Tashi Delek!
Speaker Pelosi embraces His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Dharamshala in 2019.