(NBC)
The 78-year-old California Democrat had faced threats from all corners of her Caucus — from moderates, from progressives, from members-elect and from younger lawmakers hoping for a generational change. But leading up to Wednesday's vote, following lobbying from Pelosi herself, individuals from each of these factions who had either previously expressed opposition to her or signaled skepticism came out publicly in support.
Flanked by her supporters as they continued to count the votes for speaker, Pelosi told reporters, "I’ve always had an opposition. Today it didn’t materialize into an opponent."
Her supporters also took a victory lap. "This time she is the very best. She’s not just a candidate. She is the very best that we have to lead us through this cycle and to prepare us for transition," said Rep. Joyce Beatty, D-Ohio, who was among several lawmakers who seconded Pelosi's nomination, to reporters. Read more