North America’s Building Trades Unions (NABTU) President Sean McGarvey released a statement recognizing Speaker Emeritus Nancy Pelosi following her announcement to retire from public service. Pelosi, who has served in Congress for decades, was praised by NABTU for her commitment to working-class Americans and her longstanding dedication to public service.
“Nancy D’Alesandro Pelosi has always been a working-class warrior. It is not a new fad or fashion for her. That’s what she learned growing up in Baltimore, and she never abandoned her values of who and what was important,” McGarvey said.
McGarvey highlighted Pelosi’s leadership qualities and ability to earn respect across political lines: “Her leadership is legendary, her political acumen unmatched, and her quiet ability to earn respect across the aisle remarkable. Even her opponents admired her toughness, skill, and most importantly, her humanity. She always knew everyone’s name, their children’s names, and their interests. She treated people with dignity and respect regardless of background or politics. Throughout her career, it didn’t matter if critics trashed her on Fox News or in a radio interview; she was always gracious and understood when they came to apologize that they had their own politics to manage.”
He also referenced moments when Pelosi stood firm against international leaders: “She was unafraid of anybody, especially the world’s worst despots. When China’s dictator Xi Jinping threatened to shoot her plane out of the sky, she bravely went to Taipei. When most leaders in this country were afraid, she boldly called out Putin, Kim Jong Un, and other authoritarian leaders who oppressed their people and prevented democracy.”
Domestically, McGarvey noted Pelosi’s willingness to work with presidents from both parties but also emphasized that she would voice disagreement directly when necessary: “At home, she worked with Presidents of both parties on issues they agreed on, and when she thought the issues weren’t in the best interest of her constituents or working people in this country, those Presidents wouldn’t have to read about it in a newspaper or see it on TV. She would tell them face-to-face — a rare quality in politics today. She was never afraid to tell friends when they were wrong; I speak from experience, having been invited for discussion in her office a few times myself.”
McGarvey concluded by acknowledging Pelosi’s legacy: “Her accomplishments for working people are impossible to list, and her impact will be felt for generations. As a very high-ranking member of the Republican party told me on multiple occasions, lawmakers across party lines believe she is the greatest Speaker in modern history. Congratulations, Madam Speaker Emeritus! On behalf of NABTU, our three million families, and all working people you have helped – whether they know it or not – we thank you and are grateful for your leadership and public service to America. Godspeed.”
