Molly Ball's biography 'Pelosi' portrays House Speaker Nancy Pelosi as a consistently correct and persevering figure in American politics, from her early stance on China's human rights to opposing the Iraq War and navigating the Obama administration. Pelosi's rise from a Baltimore political family to becoming the first female House speaker and her ability to challenge Donald Trump are highlighted. The book raises questions about whether Pelosi's approach is sufficient to address the current political challenges, including the handling of the pandemic and the 2020 election security.

The excerpt from Molly Ball's 'Pelosi' delves into the early life and family background of Nancy D’Alesandro Pelosi, focusing on her upbringing in a politically active Italian-American family in Baltimore. It highlights the significant influence of her parents, particularly her mother Annunciata Lombardi, who played a crucial role in her husband's political career while struggling to pursue her own ambitions. The narrative covers the family's political and personal challenges, including scandals and achievements, and underscores Nancy's early exposure to politics and her determination to carve out her own path. The text also touches on broader themes of women's rights and societal expectations during the mid-20th century.

The article reviews John Dickerson's book 'Whistlestop,' which recounts historical presidential campaign stories. It highlights the unpredictability of political campaigns, drawing parallels between past and present elections. The book is praised for its engaging storytelling and insights into the surprises that often upend political certainties.

Anthony Capasso, a legally blind patient, recounts his experience with managed care after undergoing knee surgery. Despite approval for inpatient rehabilitation, his health maintenance organization, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, discharged him early, leading to complications. Dr. J. Kevin Lynch, the surgeon, criticized the decision, highlighting the negative impact on Capasso's recovery.

Biotechnology companies are increasingly establishing themselves in New Haven, contrasting with the city's industrial history. Genaissance Pharmaceuticals is working on custom-made drugs using genetic 'bar codes', while neighboring companies like Vion Pharmaceuticals, Cellular Genomics, and Achillion are developing treatments for cancer, genetic diseases, and viral diseases, respectively. The biotech sector in New Haven has attracted over $1 billion in private investment, with many start-ups emerging. Despite being a smaller player compared to other biotech hubs, New Haven is gaining attention as an alternative to the more competitive West Coast corridor, according to Eric Roberts from Lehman Brothers.

Governor John G. Rowland's $26 billion budget proposal has sparked debate, with Democrats criticizing it as a 'shell game' that reallocates existing funds rather than introducing new spending. The budget includes $450 million in new spending for education, job training, and mental health services, while also proposing $500 million in cuts. A contentious point is the use of the Mashantucket Pequot and Mohegan Fund for education cost sharing, which has drawn criticism for altering its traditional allocation to municipalities.

Bruce Preston Marquis has been appointed as the new chief of the Hartford Police Department, tasked with addressing the department's issues of scandal, low morale, and poor community relations. Marquis, previously the chief of police for the Houston Independent School District, is known for his effective reforms and community policing strategies. His appointment comes amid internal chaos, including the suspension of the acting chief, Robert Rudewicz. Marquis plans to evaluate and possibly restructure the department, though he faces resistance from the police union regarding the promotion of external candidates. His past successes in Houston, particularly in improving minority hiring and implementing community policing, are seen as promising for Hartford's future.

Connecticut voters will decide on a ballot referendum to eliminate the state's high sheriffs and replace them with appointed marshals. The position, existing since 1650, faces criticism for political patronage and improper activities. High Sheriffs Mike Piccoli and Richard L. Zaharek defend their roles, highlighting their achievements and expressing concerns about the proposed changes. They argue that the system needs reform, not abolition, and emphasize the potential negative impacts on law enforcement and public safety. Both sheriffs remain confident that voters will support them in the referendum.

A survey by the Center for Survey Research and Analysis at the University of Connecticut revealed that 88% of 687 Connecticut doctors believe medical care has worsened under managed care compared to the fee-for-service system. The Connecticut State Medical Society's president, Donald Timmerman, acknowledged the ethical contradiction for doctors in managed care but noted a trend towards less adversarial relationships between doctors and H.M.O.s. Aetna U.S. Healthcare announced upcoming policy changes to foster a more respectful partnership with doctors, including an option to return to fee-for-service payments.