Italy

Report: Pelosi Eyes Ambassadorship to Italy If GOP Wins House Majority

SEP 6 2022·Updated JUN 25 2024

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Image credit: Getty Images [via Fox Business]

The Facts

On Tues., Fox Business reported that US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) wants Pres. Biden to appoint her as the next US ambassador to Italy if Republicans win control of the House after this fall's midterm elections.
FOX News
During July's congressional recess, Pelosi spent two weeks at an Italian beach club prompting speculation that the White House could be saving the job for her.
Townhall
Despite it being reported in Feb. that Stephen Robert would be nominated, Italy remains the only G7 country not currently having a US ambassador. The post has been vacant since former Pres. Trump's appointee Lewis Eisenberg left in Jan. 2021.
New York Post
Pelosi's spokesman Drew Hammill denied the report, and claimed "this is the second time [Fox Business host] Maria Bartiromo has proceeded with reporting anonymous rumors about the Speaker's future that have no merit."
Daily Mail
This report comes two months ahead of the midterm elections, which will take place on Nov. 8. While 35 Senate seats are on the ballot, all 435 House seats are in dispute.
CNN
Though Biden's approval ratings have been under 50%, a Wall Street Journal poll released last week indicates that Democrats now have a three-point lead over Republicans among registered votes.
Business Insider

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The Spin

Republican narrative

In a scenario where Republicans win control of the House and Senate, Pelosi shouldn't count on an easy confirmation as US ambassador to Italy. GOP Senators will make her pay for her disastrous, excessively partisan actions in Congress.

Floridapolitics

Democratic narrative

This "report" is meaningless because Democrats are going to retain control of the House. Since Roe v. Wade was overturned in June, the political climate has shifted, as proven by victories in Alaska and New York's 19th District. Biden's legislative successes will also help Democrats avoid losses that a sitting president's party historically faces in midterms. Speaker Pelosi won't need to go anywhere.