In her two decades leading House Democrats, Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California has been one of the most powerful and iconic women in Washington. When she was sworn in as speaker in 2007, surrounded by the children of members of Congress, she became the first woman to serve in that post. And over the years, Ms. Pelosi was often photographed as the lone woman in rooms full of men, even after the ranks of Congress became more diverse.
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Throughout her career, Republicans have vilified her; she is now one of the most threatened members of Congress. She had a particularly toxic relationship with former President Donald J. Trump, and their hostile interactions often drew attention, including when Ms. Pelosi aimed what appeared to be sarcastic applause at him at one of his State of the Union addresses and when she ripped up a copy of his remarks at another.
Here are the most enduring images of Ms. Pelosi during her speakership and what they mean.