These are perilous times for Nancy Pelosi. Following Jon Ossoff's defeat in Georgia's costly special election, a growing number of Democrats have expressed their frustration over the leadership of the House minority leader. Apparently tying the San Francisco Democrat to Ossoff was an effective strategy in the race. Pelosi then took to the airwaves, calling herself "a master legislator" and a "strategic, politically astute leader." Which is like Denzel Washington trying to instill fear before a crowd of skeptics at the end of Training Day. Or Fredo Corleone insisting, "I can handle things! I'm smart!"
"I'm worth the trouble, quite frankly," said Rep. Pelosi, who added it was not up to others to decide when she should step down. Some of those others, however, disagree, as evidenced by news of meetings convening behind her back regarding the possibility of her ouster.
Rep. Pelosi is in a precarious spot. She needs to be wary. Here are the top 10 things the minority leader needs to beware of:
10. Rep. Kathleen Rice invites you to a private meeting—in a cornfield.
9. Rep. Tony Cardenas says he's got great news—they're going to make you!
8. A meeting of the Democratic leadership is being held at the rooftop of an Atlantic City casino.
7. Rep. Cedric Richmond gives you a free ticket to Las Vegas and offers to drive you to the airport.
6. Avoid taking congressional elevators unless you know everyone inside the car.
5. Don't buy any oranges in Eastern Market.
4. Did someone leave your office drapes open?
3. House whip Steny Hoyer says Tim Ryan wants to arrange a meeting and Hoyer can arrange security "on my territory."
2. Rep. Tim Ryan invites you to go fishing.
1. You decide to go on the offensive against the White House. Don't. The shields are still up. It's a trap. (I know, that one's a stretch.)