The Democrats are trying to cover their tracks. But even their supposed allies are exposing them.
And now Nancy Pelosi snapped on camera after being asked the one question she’s trying to avoid.
At the Democratic National Convention on Monday, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi was once again put on the spot about her role in President Biden’s decision to step aside in the 2024 race, endorsing Vice President Harris as the Democratic nominee.
Biden’s historic move to bow out came after a flood of Democratic lawmakers urged him to withdraw following his dismal performance in the presidential debate.
Rumors swirled that Pelosi had a hand in coordinating this effort, pushing Biden out to clear the path for Harris.
CNN’s Jake Tapper confronted Pelosi on the first night of the DNC, questioning whether there’s any lingering resentment from Biden or his allies toward her.
“I know that it was very difficult for him,” Tapper said, alluding to comments from Biden’s top aides, Anita Dunn and Ron Klain, who hinted at tension.
Tapper continued:
“There does seem to be—even though Anita Dunn said earlier today, ‘Nobody wants to have a fight with Nancy Pelosi at this time.’ It does seem like there’s some residual bad blood or resentment, and I‘m wondering if you‘ve spoken to him and what your response is to that.”
Pelosi brushed off the question with a glib remark, “Sometimes you just have to take a punch for the children,” as if forcing the sitting president to step down was some noble sacrifice on her part.
Tapper, not letting it go, pressed her again about Dunn’s comments and whether she had spoken to Biden.
Pelosi, clearly irked, gestured to cut him off and said:
“You know what? I had to do what I had to do. He made the decision for the country. My concern was not about the president, it was about his campaign. As he has seen with the exuberance, the excitement that has come forth in our country.”
Tapper didn’t dispute that the Democratic Party appears to be in a better position now than it was just weeks ago, but Pelosi seemed eager to shut down the conversation.
“So why are we even talking about it?” she asked, deflecting any responsibility for the fallout.
“They put it in my script and made me read it,” Tapper quipped, with co-host Dana Bash chiming in, “OK, Ron Burgundy.”
“They’re holding my cat hostage,” Tapper joked, trying to lighten the mood, but the exchange left a clear impression—Pelosi wasn’t interested in acknowledging any hard feelings, much less her role in forcing Biden out.
Watch the full exchange below:
WATCH:
— Steve Guest (@SteveGuest) August 20, 2024
CNN's Jake Tapper: Have you talked to Joe Biden?
Nancy Pelosi: "I did what I had to do. ... My concern was not about the president, it was about his campaign." pic.twitter.com/ao5e7lwmGP
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