The phrase "former speaker" refers to someone who used to hold the position of "speaker" in a group or organization, but is not currently in that role anymore. Full definition
A superseding indictment filed Thursday against former speaker of the New York State Assembly, Sheldon Silver, charged him with making illegal investments through private vehicles. (therealdeal.com)
The Republican senators have been fairly disciplined in the weeks since news reports first described the alleged scheme, unlike the state Assembly, where internal divisions weighed on the majority Democrats earlier this year as they grappled with the reported investigation and eventual arrest of former speaker Sheldon Silver. (politico.com)
As former speaker, that has not changed, including when it comes to his feelings about his diminished position. (nytimes.com)