One of the things I give Nancy Pelosi a lot of credit for is that she's able to get things passed and hold her members together because she shows us that she's doing everything possible to get our views into these bills.

Welch was reelected in 2008 with no major-party opposition becoming the first Democrat to be reelected to the House from Vermont in 158 years. Despite Welch’s Progressive positions on social issues and his low ratings from traditionally conservative interest groups Welch has adopted a conservative position on gun rights. In July 2009 Welch supported legislation to help disabled veterans.

He is a member of the Democratic Party. He previously served in the Vermont Senate where he was the Minority Leader and President pro tempore.