On Thursday, President Donald Trump announced that he is requesting Rep. Elise Stefanik to withdraw her nomination for the position of United Nations ambassador. During his statement, Trump emphasized the significance of maintaining a tight majority in the House, stating, "With a very tight Majority, I don't want to take a chance on anyone else running for Elise's seat." This remark highlights the current political landscape, where House Republicans hold a narrow five-seat margin in the chamber.
Following her nomination by Trump for the U.N. role, Elise Stefanik stepped down from her leadership position in the House. She was succeeded as the House Republican Conference Chair by Michigan Rep. Lisa McClain. In a show of support, House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed his intention to invite Stefanik back to the leadership table immediately, commending her selfless decision to withdraw her nomination.
However, sources familiar with the situation informed ABC News that McClain has no plans to resign from her current role. As of now, it remains unclear what position, if any, Stefanik will hold within House Republican leadership, as key roles are currently occupied. There is potential for leadership to create a new role for her, but no formal decisions have been made yet.
A New York Republican, Elise Stefanik began her congressional career as a moderate. In recent years, she has emerged as one of Trump's strongest supporters, particularly noted for her active role in addressing antisemitism on college campuses, especially in light of the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Moreover, she has publicly accused the United Nations of harboring antisemitic sentiments.
Trump had previously nominated her for the U.N. position in November, shortly after the election, asserting that she would be an "America First fighter" in alignment with his foreign policy agenda. His recent announcement regarding her withdrawal came at a time when both Democrats and Republicans were preparing for a potential special election to fill her congressional seat, although a date for this election has yet to be established.
In his statement, Trump expressed confidence in Stefanik's popularity, stating, "The people love Elise and, with her, we have nothing to worry about come Election Day." He indicated that there are other capable individuals for the U.N. role, affirming that Stefanik will remain in Congress, rejoin the House Leadership Team, and continue advocating for the American people.
Currently, House Republicans maintain a slim majority with 218 members to 213 Democrats, giving Speaker Johnson a two-vote cushion. Trump appeared to keep the door open for Stefanik to join his administration in the future, stating, "I look forward to the day when Elise is able to join my Administration." He described her as "absolutely FANTASTIC." At this time, Trump has not disclosed who he plans to nominate next for the U.N. ambassador role, which requires Senate confirmation.
As the situation evolves, Stefanik has not yet issued a statement regarding her withdrawal. Meanwhile, preparations for a special election to replace her continue. According to reports from ABC affiliate WTEN, Democratic county chairs have already selected Blake Gendebien, a dairy farmer, as their candidate. The Republican Party has yet to announce its candidate for the potential election.
This story is still developing. For ongoing updates, please check back for more information.
