After Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential election, a once-forgotten remark from former Speaker Crazy Nancy Pelosi resurfaced across social media, gaining attention for its grim reflection of the Democratic Party’s state. The line, “There’s no point in saying ‘good morning,’ because it certainly is not one,” was originally delivered by Pelosi during a separate event but has since become a symbol of frustration for many. Republicans have seized upon the quote, interpreting it as encapsulating the mood within the Democratic Party following their defeat.
Former Speaker Kevin McCarthy was quick to place blame on Pelosi for the loss, particularly due to her push for Kamala Harris to become the party’s nominee. “Remember when she went around democracy and said, ‘I don’t care if people picked you, I’m going to pick someone else?’” McCarthy remarked, referring to Pelosi’s pivotal role in orchestrating Biden’s withdrawal from the race. McCarthy argues that Pelosi’s behind-the-scenes influence ultimately forced Harris into a vulnerable position, leaving the Democratic Party without a strong, unifying candidate.
McCarthy didn’t stop there, adding that Harris’s decisions also played a part in the defeat. “The very first decision that Kamala Harris made was the wrong decision,” McCarthy said, referring to her choice of running mate, Tim Walz, instead of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. “That sealed the deal,” he added, suggesting that the Walz pick failed to generate enthusiasm among voters and didn’t resonate with crucial swing states.
While Pelosi never directly called for Biden’s exit, her dissatisfaction with his campaign was evident. She made several statements that signaled her concerns about his ability to run, leading to speculation that she had played a crucial role behind the scenes. In one MSNBC appearance, Pelosi famously stated, “It’s up to the president to decide if he is going to run,” signaling the uncertainty that clouded the Democratic ticket.
Her efforts to push Biden out and install Harris as the nominee are seen by many as a strategic gamble that ultimately backfired. “Elections are decisions. You decide to win,” Pelosi had said, in a previous interview, as she defended her actions. “I decided a while ago that Donald Trump will never set foot in the White House again,” she added, indicating the stakes behind her campaign for Harris. However, despite her best efforts, Pelosi’s strategy did not bear fruit.