Former U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi, 84, was hospitalized in Luxembourg after sustaining an injury on Friday, December 13, during a visit that marked the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge. Pelosi was part of a bipartisan congressional delegation in the country, honoring the U.S. servicemembers’ contributions during World War II.
According to Pelosi’s spokesperson, Ian Krager, the former speaker was admitted to the hospital for evaluation following an accident during an official engagement. “Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi sustained an injury during an official engagement and was admitted to the hospital for evaluation. She is receiving excellent treatment from doctors and medical professionals,” he confirmed. He also reassured that Pelosi was in good spirits and was continuing her work from the hospital. Krager confirmed on Saturday that Pelosi was transferred to a military base hospital in Germany and had undergone hip replacement surgery after fracturing her hip in the fall.
According to reports, Pelosi stumbled and fell down marble stairs at the Grand Ducal Palace. She had been seen earlier in the company of Representative Michael McCaul. Pelosi canceled the rest of her scheduled events in Luxembourg and Bastogne due to her injuries, the details of which, apart from the hip fracture, were not disclosed. In an official statement, Pelosi expressed her disappointment for missing the ceremonies and thanked the people of Luxembourg and Bastogne for their roles during the war and their continued efforts for peace in Europe.
The visit was significant as Pelosi paid tribute to the valiant American troops who fought in one of the most decisive battles of World War II. Krager stated that Pelosi was deeply moved by the stories of courage and sacrifice shared during the ceremonies and remains committed to honoring and preserving their legacy.
The incident involving Pelosi comes on the heels of a similar occurrence involving Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, 82, who sustained minor injuries after a fall at the U.S. Capitol earlier in the week, prompting discussions about the physical toll on senior politicians.
Pelosi, a long-serving representative from San Francisco, California, stepped down as Speaker in 2023 after the Republicans took control of the House. However, she retained her seat with a resounding victory in her district. Pelosi’s career, spanning several decades, includes significant legislative achievements such as the Affordable Care Act and various pandemic relief bills. She continues to be a powerful figure in U.S. politics, recognized for her unwavering dedication and service.
Rep. Mike McCaul (R-Texas), who was standing beside her at the time of her accident, observed Pelosi’s very high heels before she lost her balance on the marble staircase, which had no railing. After she fell on one of the final steps, McCaul helped her up and they took a photo together. Shortly after the picture showing him supporting her by the hand, a vehicle arrived to transport her to the hospital.
Pelosi arrived back at her California home on Wednesday, December 18. Her office emphasized her determination to fully recover and resume her duties.