Speaking Sunday, President Obama expressed support for one of his Democratic colleagues, saying House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi was “one of the best speakers this country has ever had.”
Speaking at a gala of the National Italian American Foundation, Mr. Obama not only praised Ms. Pelosi, he also predicted she would resume her role as speaker again in 2013.
“I am biased, but I think Nancy was one of the best Speakers of the House this country ever had.” “She was no doubt the best Italian American Speaker of the House we ever had. And I believe that she will be the best Speaker of the House again in 2013,” Mr. Obama said.
Mr. Obama’s praise for the California Democrat comes as he faces a tough bid for re-election. Recent polls show Mr. Obama struggling to reassure his base, while simultaneously seeking to gain support among independents. A number of progressive voters have expressed concerns with the Obama administration’s handling of the economy and ties to Wall Street.
The Obama administration’s relationship with Capitol Hill — and Ms. Pelosi, in particular — has encountered a number of hurdles in recent years. The California Democrat expressed disappointment during the administration’s negotiations regarding raising the nation’s debt ceiling. Ms. Pelosi, who was not invited to a number of key meetings, eventually met with Mr. Obama and White House officials in an attempt to smooth relations.
