Trump pulls Stefanik's ambassador nomination

WASHINGTON | Less than one week before Rep. Elise Stefanik's expected confirmation to be U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, President Donald Trump announced Thursday that he was pulling the 21st District Representative's nomination. President Trump tapped Stefanik to represent the U.S. internationally soon after winning reelection in November. Her nomination advanced out of committee in late January, but the final confirmation has been delayed with concerns about Republicans' thin 218-213 majority in the House. Trump announced he was pulling Stefanik's nomination in a Truth Social post, saying that it was "essential that we maintain EVERY Republican Seat in Congress." "We must be unified to accomplish our Mission, and Elise Stefanik has been a vital part of our efforts from the very beginning. I have asked Elise, as one of my biggest Allies, to remain in Congress." No replacement was immediately announced. Stefanik's final confirmation was set for next week as the unofficial race for her assumed-to-be vacant seat and the potential special election gained momentum between Democrat-endorsed North Country farmer Blake Gendebien and numerous prospective Republican candidates, including front-runner Sen. Dan Stec, who received the Conservative Party endorsement this week. Stefanik's office did not immediately comment on the political reversal. Sen. Dan Stec said "Congresswoman Elise Stefanik is a true, strong leader and would have been a fantastic UN Ambassador. The withdrawal of her nomination is extraordinarily disappointing news for her and as her friend, I empathize greatly. "I'm proud to support Elise Stefanik in all her endeavors and will continue partnering with her to make our region, state and nation safer, stronger, more secure and more economically prosperous." Assemblyman Matt Simpson (R,C-Lake George) said Stefanik's voice is Washington is crucial for the North Country. "I have seen firsthand the incredible leadership Congresswoman Elise Stefanik has brought to our region and to the Republican Party," Simpson said. "While she would have made an outstanding United Nations Ambassador, her voice in Washington fighting for the North Country and her role in shaping the future of our nation remain invaluable." Assemblyman Chris Tague, another favored GOP NY-21 candidate from Schoharie, released a statement saying "Congresswoman Elise Stefanik would have made an exceptional United Nations Ambassador. Her sharp intellect, bold leadership, and steadfast commitment to America's interests make her uniquely qualified for the global stage. "While the withdrawal of her nomination is unfortunate for America, her continued service in Congress is a tremendous advantage for New York's 21st District. Elise has been a tireless fighter for our farmers, our military, and our values, and her leadership has helped make NY-21 a model for strong Republican representation. "I fully support Elise and everything she has done and will continue to do for our state and our country. I look forward to continuing to work with her to advance the America First agenda and deliver results for the people of this district." Following the announcement, former candidate Gendebien said "I started this campaign because the North Country deserves a representative who truly knows what it means to work hard and deliver for our community- and what's been made clear today is that Washington knows I'm the right person to do so." This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.

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Trump pulls Stefanik's ambassador nomination

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