Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi will not attend President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on Monday, her spokesperson confirmed.
No official reason was provided for her absence, marking a notable deviation from her attendance at Trump’s first inauguration in 2017, when she served as House Democratic Leader.
Pelosi, 84, has recently faced significant health issues, which may have influenced her decision. Earlier this year, she fractured her hip during a congressional delegation trip overseas.
The injury occurred after she lost her footing on a marble staircase, requiring emergency hip replacement surgery.
The procedure was conducted at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany, with transportation and medical support provided by the U.S. Department of Defense. Pelosi’s office publicly thanked the medical teams in Germany and Luxembourg for their care.
Her recovery has been closely monitored, and Pelosi was recently seen on the House floor during the certification of Trump’s 2024 election victory.
Using a walker, she made her way across the floor, demonstrating resilience but also highlighting her ongoing recuperation.
Nancy Pelosi uses a walker today in Congress:pic.twitter.com/wqU3JY6v5Q
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) January 6, 2025
While her health is a plausible factor, some view her absence as a political statement given her well-documented opposition to Trump during his presidency.
Pelosi played a key role in Trump’s two impeachment trials, further fueling speculation about her motivations.
As a seasoned lawmaker with decades of experience, Pelosi’s presence at such events is often seen as a reflection of institutional continuity.
Her absence this year stands out, particularly given her attendance in 2017 despite the divisive political climate at the time.
Pelosi’s spokesperson has declined to elaborate on the decision, leaving the public to speculate. Whether her absence is primarily due to health concerns, personal choice, or political considerations remains unclear.
Pelosi’s health and recovery have been the subject of significant media attention in recent months. Her use of a walker during public appearances and reports of her hospitalization overseas underscore the challenges she faces as she balances her responsibilities in Congress.
Her decision to miss the inauguration, coupled with her recent health issues, has sparked conversations about the future of her political career and the implications of such absences for the Democratic Party.
While Pelosi’s office has not commented further, her health and political influence remain areas of keen public interest.