WASHINGTON, D.C. – On January 3, Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) was officially sworn in for another term in the House of Representatives, marking her continued tenure as a fixture of American politics. In a brief statement following the ceremony, Pelosi surprised onlookers by pledging to approach her new term with “a little less corruption” than in previous years.
A "Renewed Commitment" to Ethics
Pelosi, 84, addressed a small crowd of supporters and reporters outside the Capitol, outlining her vision for the term ahead.
“I’ve heard the concerns of the American people,” Pelosi said. “This time around, I promise to be less corrupt—or at least more subtle about it. The public deserves that much.”
When pressed for details, Pelosi explained that her new approach includes limiting her stock market activity to “only the most promising insider tips” and “never violating ethics rules… on purpose.”
Critics Doubtful of Change
Republicans and political commentators were quick to express skepticism about Pelosi’s self-described “renewed commitment” to ethics.
“Less corrupt? That’s like a bank robber saying they’ll steal fewer banks this year,” quipped Representative Lauren Boebert (R-CO). “It’s laughable.”
Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) added, “Pelosi has a decades-long track record of putting her own interests ahead of the American people. A vague promise to dial it down doesn’t inspire confidence.”
Past Controversies Loom
Pelosi’s career has been marred by allegations of unethical behavior, including accusations of using her political influence to benefit her family’s financial interests. Most notably, Pelosi and her husband, Paul Pelosi, have been criticized for perfectly timed stock trades that coincided with key congressional actions.
A recent study revealed that members of Congress vastly outperform average investors in the stock market, with Pelosi leading the pack. Despite public outrage, her response has been dismissive, once famously stating, “We’re a free-market economy. They should be allowed to participate.”
"New Year, New Me"?
Pelosi ended her statement by addressing the criticisms head-on.
“Look, nobody’s perfect,” she said. “But in this term, I’m committed to doing what’s right for the American people… most of the time. Let’s just say you’ll see a new Nancy Pelosi—or at least a slightly improved version.”
Whether Pelosi’s promise of “less corruption” resonates with her constituents or further fuels Republican calls for accountability remains to be seen. One thing, however, is clear: Nancy Pelosi’s brand of politics is unlikely to change overnight.
As the new term begins, Americans will be watching closely to see if Pelosi’s words translate into action—or if they’re simply another chapter in her storied political career.