Trump Asks Stefanik to Withdraw UN Ambassador Nomination to Maintain House Majority
President Donald Trump has asked Rep. Elise Stefanik to withdraw her nomination for U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations to preserve the Republican majority in the House of Representatives.
Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., announced her decision to step back from the nomination for U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations following a direct request from President Donald Trump. The decision, described by Stefanik as a ’team player’ move, aims to maintain the GOP’s razor-thin majority in the House. On ‘Hannity,’ Stefanik emphasized her commitment to delivering results for her constituents and the American people, stating, ‘The president knows that. He and I had multiple conversations today, and we are committed to delivering results on behalf of the American people.’
Trump detailed his reasoning on Truth Social, underscoring the importance of maintaining every Republican seat in Congress to advance the America First Agenda. He praised Stefanik as a vital ally and expressed his desire for her to remain in Congress to help deliver on key issues such as tax cuts, job creation, economic growth, border security, and energy dominance. ‘With a very tight Majority, I don’t want to take a chance on anyone else running for Elise’s seat,’ Trump wrote, adding that others could handle the UN role.
Despite initial expectations of a smooth Senate confirmation, Stefanik faced pressure to withdraw due to the precarious House majority and internal district politics. Concerns about a potential special election in New York, where Governor Kathy Hochul could delay proceedings, also played a role in the decision. Stefanik criticized the political climate in New York, accusing Democrats of corruption and attempting to undermine the president.
Trump announced that Stefanik would rejoin the House GOP leadership team, a move welcomed by Speaker Johnson. While specifics of her new role remain unclear, Stefanik assured that she would continue to speak out and be more vocal without the constraints of a pending confirmation. ‘The good news is because I am not pending confirmation, the American people will be hearing a lot more from me,’ she stated.
This strategic withdrawal underscores the delicate balance of power in Congress and the importance of maintaining party unity as the administration pushes forward its agenda.