Nancy Pelosi, the former House Speaker from California, expressed in a recent interview that many Republicans tend to avoid crossing President Trump, mainly due to fear. “No one is talking because everyone is afraid,” she remarked during her appearance on SiriusXM’s “Mornings with Zerlina.” She pointed out that this fear is justified, given Trump’s relentless pursuit of individuals who dissent.
Trump’s influence has significantly impacted Republicans holding a slim majority in both the House and Senate, steering controversial candidates and pushing through major tax reforms that have prompted hesitance among some GOP lawmakers.
For instance, Senator Tom Tillis from North Carolina faced intense backlash from Trump for opposing a substantial bill last month, which ultimately led Tillis to announce he would not run for a third term next fall. Trump reportedly threatened to support challengers against him.
Pelosi accused congressional Republicans of overlooking their legislative responsibilities under Trump’s leadership. She also noted that critics of Trump’s policies often remain silent due to fears of potential retaliatory investigations by the Department of Justice or the FBI, along with concerns for their personal safety.
Reflecting on a personal incident, Pelosi mentioned her husband, Paul, who was attacked in their San Francisco home in 2022. The assailant, David Depp, was found guilty and received life sentences in 2024. “I thank God my husband survived, but that’s the kind of fear they hold,” she stated. “They worry about threats to their families and their children’s safety.”
Pelosi also addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding the Trump administration’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case. Recently, the DOJ concluded that Epstein had no “client list” and died by suicide in 2019 while facing sex trafficking charges.
Trump has repeatedly resisted calls for more transparency regarding Epstein’s connections and circumstances surrounding his death. In a podcast interview, House Speaker Mike Johnson mentioned that the Trump administration believes it’s best to present the facts and let the public decide.
Pelosi noted a distinct difference between Johnson’s stance and Trump’s, revealing her belief that Johnson is ultimately guided by Trump’s wishes. “Everything Donald Trump asked him to do reflects the fear not just of those in power, but of all who care about our institutions,” she concluded.
