Transcript of Press Availability Following Election of House Democratic Leader

Leader Pelosi.  Good afternoon, everyone.  In a short period of time we will have election of our full leadership and we'll all come out. But it's taking a little longer, so I thought I'd just come by and tell you how exhilarated I am by the strong vote that I have from my colleagues as we go forward.  They have honored me with this leadership role and as Speaker in the past and that's exciting.

But today has a special excitement for me because I think we're at a time where it's well beyond politics.  It's about the character of America and how we go forward in our Caucus to put forth our values which are what unite us as a Caucus, to differentiate between us and the Administration that will come into Washington in January.  To take that message clearly to the public is something that is of historic challenge.  The American people see the urgency.  We have a responsibility and we embrace the opportunity that is presented.  We know how to win elections.  We've done it in the past, we will do it again by making that differentiation.  But, again, this is so much bigger than politics.  It's about the character of America.  It's a responsibility to the people, our obligation to our founders, our gratitude to our men and women in uniform and our respect for the aspirations of America's children and our families.  So I have a special spring in my step today because this opportunity is a special one to lead the House Democrats, bring everyone together as we go forward.

My heart is broken that we did not win the White House this time.  That is – it's a pain and not for me personally, but for what it means to the American people.  So I would trade anything not to have this opportunity of opposing an Administration.

Where we can engage, we will.  Where we need to oppose, we will.  But nonetheless, this does afford an opportunity so that the Congressional Democrats can go forward and remove all doubt that never again will we have an election where there's any doubt in anyone's mind where the Democrats are when it comes to America's working families.

So with all of that, we'll be back soon with our full complement of the leadership, but I wanted to just congratulate Tim Ryan on a good race.  I look forward to working with all of our colleagues from the beautiful diversity of our caucus to put forth a message that does connect with the American people.  Thank you all.