Jan 21, 2018 2 min read

What is it about Nancy Pelosi that scares Republicans so much that they bring up her name in every congressional election? They’ve done it again in the election in the 18th congressional district to fill the seat vacated by Tim Murphy.

Pelosi is from California, that way-out, left-leaning state, but so is Arnold Schwarzenegger. He was even governor. Pelosi hasn’t been accused of sexual misconduct or otherwise abusing or harassing anyone of either gender. She hasn’t tried to force her religion on the rest of us. She’s not flashy, she dresses conservatively, is well spoken, mostly speaks truthfully, but does express her opinions, sometimes forcefully.

She does support a woman’s right to choose, but there are others in Congress who agree. She also supports accessible maternity care for all mothers and babies. She believes every American child deserves a healthy beginning and access to a good education. She believes that every citizen should have the opportunity to make a good life for themselves and their families.

Pelosi recognizes man’s influence on the changing climate. California has had firsthand experience with the consequences of climate change because of recent deadly fires and mudslides.

So why do Republicans say the Democratic candidate in the 18th district, Conor Lamb, is an echo of Pelosi? What is so frightening about this woman? I couldn’t understand until I realized Pelosi is a woman in a position of power. Women is positions of power seem to frighten some Republicans.

Did any of them watch the Golden Globe Awards two weeks ago? “Time’s up, it’s our time.” For women, it’s our time now.

Martha McFadden

Washington