Nancy Pelosi, even stepping back from the Speaker’s chair and nearing retirement, reveals a deeply entrenched animosity towards Donald Trump. Her recent statements demonstrate a persistent disapproval that extends beyond political disagreement, hinting at a continued desire to see him removed from power.
During a recent interview, Pelosi was directly asked about the possibility of a third impeachment attempt should Democrats regain control of the House in 2026. Her response, a carefully constructed narrative, subtly signaled that another impeachment could very well be on the horizon.
Pelosi boldly asserted that Trump himself was the catalyst for his previous impeachments, claiming he “gave us no choice.” She pointed to the phone call with the Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and alleged disrespect for the Constitution as justification, framing the events as unavoidable responses to his actions.
However, the first impeachment, centered around the Ukraine call, remains a murky affair for many. The details were complex and largely driven by interpretations from within the national security apparatus, making it difficult for the average citizen to fully grasp the core accusations.
That initial impeachment relied heavily on claims and exaggerations, fueled by figures like Adam Schiff, and even Pelosi herself. The process stretched for months, ultimately culminating in a Senate acquittal, leaving many questioning the validity of the charges.
The second impeachment, triggered by the January 6th Capitol incursion, was more visually impactful, resonating with those who witnessed the events unfold on television. Yet, it too was viewed by some as a politically motivated attempt to permanently disqualify Trump from future office.
Democrats, echoing the pragmatic approach of Rahm Emanuel, sought to capitalize on the crisis, aiming to leverage the violence into a lasting barrier against Trump’s return. This effort, like the first, ultimately failed to secure a conviction in the Senate.
Now, Pelosi suggests that impeachment should only be considered as an absolute last resort, a “hair-on-fire” necessity. She stated that Democrats would need a clear justification, a compelling reason, before initiating such a drastic measure.
This carefully worded stance contrasts sharply with the blunt declaration of Representative Rashida Tlaib years ago, who openly vowed to impeach Trump shortly after taking office. Pelosi’s measured tone feels disingenuous given her history.
Throughout American history, impeachment has been reserved for moments of profound constitutional crisis, from Andrew Johnson’s clashes with Reconstruction efforts to Richard Nixon’s resignation in the face of Watergate. Even the Clinton impeachment, while controversial, carried a weight of its own.
The Trump impeachments, however, felt different – more akin to political theater than genuine attempts to address high crimes and misdemeanors. They were largely predictable exercises with predetermined outcomes.
Despite Pelosi’s insistence on a high threshold for impeachment, her past actions and current rhetoric suggest a willingness to pursue it again if the opportunity arises. While she won’t be in Congress to see it through, the groundwork appears to be laid.
If Democrats regain the House, the possibility of a third Trump impeachment looms large, a continuation of the political battles that have defined recent American history. The stage is set, and the potential for further division remains undeniable.
