The first woman to serve as the Speaker of the House in the United States was Nancy Pelosi. She held this position first from 2007 to 2011 and again from 2019 to 2023. Pelosi is a member of the Democratic Party and was pivotal in shaping significant legislation during her tenure, including the Affordable Care Act. Her leadership role has solidified her status as a powerful figure in American politics, particularly in advocating for women's rights and health care reform.