NABTU President Honors Nancy Pelosi's Legacy and Retirement Announcement

Tribute to Nancy Pelosi's Legacy: NABTU President Reflects on Her Service

Washington, D.C. – November 6, 2025 – The announcement of Nancy Pelosi's retirement marks the end of an era for many in political and labor circles, with significant recognition coming from North America's Building Trades Unions (NABTU). In a statement, NABTU President Sean McGarvey highlighted Pelosi's unwavering commitment to working-class values, a testament to her roots in Baltimore. Her lifelong service to her district, the nation, and the world earned her acclaim as a formidable advocate for the working class.

Sean McGarvey emphasized Pelosi's unparalleled leadership and political acumen, citing her ability to command respect from colleagues on both sides of the aisle. Her legacy includes not only legislative successes but also personal interactions marked by respect and dignity, traits that won her admiration even from her opponents. McGarvey noted her humanity, recalling how Pelosi remembered personal details about those she worked with, treating everyone with equal respect irrespective of their political alignment.

Pelosi's courage in international affairs was also underscored. McGarvey recounted her unyielding stance against global despots, such as during her defiant trip to Taipei despite threats from China's Xi Jinping. Her boldness extended to challenging figures like Putin and Kim Jong Un. Domestically, Pelosi maintained open and direct communications with Presidents of both parties, often voicing her disagreements personally rather than through the media, showcasing a rare quality of honesty in contemporary politics.

The impact of Pelosi's career on working people is profound and wide-reaching. As McGarvey relayed, even high-ranking Republicans have lauded her as one of the greatest Speakers in modern history. Her influence and achievements will resonate for generations to come.

In closing his statement, McGarvey expressed gratitude on behalf of NABTU's three million families and the working people across America. "Congratulations, Madam Speaker Emeritus! On behalf of NABTU, our three million families, and all working people you have helped – whether they know it or not – we thank you and are grateful for your leadership and public service to America. Godspeed."