Thirty-one House Democratic women sent a “Dear Colleague” letter Friday afternoon making the case for why Speaker Nancy Pelosi should stay on as Minority Leader in the 112th Congress. 

“As the first women Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi has borne the brunt of unfair criticism and attacks, but her record of accomplishment speaks for itself,” the women wrote in the letter, which Pelosi’s office released to the press. 

Even though she is running unopposed for Minority Leader, the California Democrat has spent recent days touting her accomplishments and trumpeting her support. More than two dozen House Democrats have said they would prefer someone else atop House Democratic leadership.

Friday’s letter, which includes two newly elected female Members — Reps. Karen Bass (Calif.) and Terri Sewell (Ala.) — highlights Pelosi’s efforts to empower women since becoming Speaker in 2007, as well as during her first stint as Minority Leader, from 2002 to 2007. Pelosi is the highest-ranking woman in Congressional history.

“At a time when the incoming Majority is expected to threaten the progress we have made for women and families, we need Nancy Pelosi as Democratic Leader to help us stay unified and fight back,” the women wrote. “We need her leadership to protect the interests of American women and we urge you to join us in enthusiastically endorsing her bid for Minority Leader.”