Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi appeared on *The View* on Monday, where she discussed her latest book, "The Art of Power," and her family's trauma following the 2022 attack on her husband, Paul Pelosi. The conversation touched on both personal and political topics, including her husband's recovery and the challenges faced by political families in a climate of rising violence.
Newsweek reported that during the interview, Pelosi recounted the frightening details of her husband’s assault in October 2022, where an intruder attacked Paul Pelosi in their San Francisco home, and discussed its emotional impact.
In October 2022, Paul Pelosi was violently attacked in the couple's San Francisco residence by an intruder, David DePape, who was reportedly searching for Nancy Pelosi.
DePape broke into the home and assaulted Paul Pelosi with a hammer, leaving him with serious injuries, including a skull fracture. The assailant was arrested and sentenced to 30 years in prison in May of this year.
During the interview, Nancy Pelosi recalled the terrifying moment when she first learned about the attack.
She admitted that she initially did not know if her husband had survived. "He's coming along a little more time. He was hit on the head three times," she said, reflecting on Paul Pelosi's physical recovery.
In addition to the physical injuries, Pelosi emphasized the long-lasting trauma that the attack has had on her husband and their family. "It was a horrible thing, and that was physical, but the traumatic effect for him, for us, for the family, but also for other political families as well," Pelosi stated.
She highlighted the growing violence against public figures, adding that "violence has no place in any resolution of any discussion you may have."
The attack, which shook the nation, was also marred by mockery from certain political figures. Pelosi mentioned that "someone who shall remain nameless" had made jokes about the assault, a veiled reference to former President Donald Trump. She also noted that Trump's family and some Republican governors participated in making light of the traumatic event.
While Pelosi did not dwell on these moments, she underscored the importance of addressing and preventing violence in politics.
"We have to stop the violence," she concluded, speaking broadly about the need to create a more civil political environment for all public servants and their families.
In addition to discussing her husband’s recovery and the broader issue of political violence, Pelosi provided her thoughts on the upcoming 2024 presidential election. She expressed her confidence in Vice President Kamala Harris’ ability to unify the nation.
Pelosi stated that Harris will play a key role in bringing Americans together after the division caused by Trump's presidency.
"I know her as a strong leader," she said, praising Harris’ skills as both a politician and a communicator. "She knows the policy, she knows the strategy, she has the eloquence to convey it, and politically, she's very astute," Pelosi added.
Pelosi highlighted Harris’ leadership abilities, emphasizing her ability to connect with a broad audience. She believes that Harris will be instrumental in promoting policies that work for all Americans. According to Pelosi, Harris "will be there to talk about an economy that works for everyone, about promoting freedom, about taking us into a wonderful, unified future."
Pelosi’s confidence in Harris is rooted in the vice president's ability to present solutions that address the needs of the American people. She concluded her remarks by contrasting Harris' dedication to public service with the self-interest she attributes to Trump, noting that "She cares about the people he cares about himself."
Aside from the conversation on current events, Pelosi also discussed her book, "The Art of Power." The memoir delves into her rise from a mother of five to the first female Speaker of the House, as well as her role in shaping critical legislation over the years.
Pelosi has long been recognized for her influence in Washington, particularly during pivotal moments such as the 2008 economic rescue plan and healthcare reform. The book also details her moral stance on significant political issues, including her opposition to the Iraq War and her leadership during the January 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection.
While much of the book focuses on her political achievements, Pelosi also offers readers an intimate look into her family life.
She discusses the challenges and sacrifices that come with balancing public service and family responsibilities.
The attack on Paul Pelosi is one of the more personal stories in the book, highlighting the dangers that political families face in the current climate. Through "The Art of Power," Pelosi aims to offer insight into her personal experiences as a leader and mother.
