Nancy Pelosi Returns to Washington Following Hip Surgery

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has returned to Washington, DC, just over three weeks after undergoing hip replacement surgery. Her presence is seen as significant as Democrats aim for full attendance in Friday’s contentious speakership contest.

In her first public appearance since falling on marble steps at the Grand Ducal Palace in Luxembourg and fracturing her hip, Pelosi, 84, shared a brief video message before her flight.

“Hi, it’s Nancy. I’m on my way to Washington, DC, to proudly represent the people of San Francisco and share our San Francisco values in the Congress of the United States,” she said in a clip shared by her team.

On my way to Washington, DC to proudly represent the people of San Francisco and share our San Francisco values in the Congress of the United States. Thank you for giving me that honor! -NP pic.twitter.com/Ay8pGsNgDb

— Nancy Pelosi (@TeamPelosi) January 2, 2025

Pelosi appeared visibly tired in the video but projected determination as she traveled back to the nation’s capital.

Her return is critical as Democrats seek to avoid aiding Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) in retaining his position during the 119th Congress. When the House is at full attendance, a candidate requires 218 votes to secure the speakership. Johnson, facing dissent from some Republicans, can only afford to lose one vote from his caucus.

Pelosi’s recovery follows a Dec. 13 accident in Luxembourg, where she fell while descending a marble staircase without a railing during a U.S. delegation visit to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge.

“I was right next to her. She likes to wear high heels—very high. She was on one of her last steps on this marble staircase that didn’t have a railing and she lost her footing and fell to the ground,” recounted Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Texas).

After the fall, McCaul helped Pelosi to her feet, and she managed to pose for a group photo while visibly masking her discomfort by holding her hip. Pelosi underwent successful hip replacement surgery and has since been recuperating.

Despite her injury, Pelosi remained active in political matters, reportedly rallying support for Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-Va.) as the top Democrat on the Oversight Committee, opposing Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY).

Pelosi has served in the House of Representatives since 1987 and continues to wield considerable influence within the Democratic Party.