Congresswoman Elisa Stefanik (R-North Country) was due to have her day in Congress for her confirmation hearing to become the United Nations Ambassador for the United States. But, President Trump this week asked her to take one for the team and step aside.
President Trump and Republican leaders are keeping their eye on a thin margin in the House. And, with Governor Hochul potentially going to fiddle with the dates of the special election when Stefanik is confirmed, leaving the seat vacant for longer than acceptable, Trump does not want to take any chances. Enacting his agenda requires keeping both the House and the Senate.
Trump took several Republican members into his administration leaving other seats open for special elections besides Stefanik’s seat.
It is "essential that we maintain EVERY Republican Seat in Congress," said Trump on Truth Social. "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.”
"I have asked Elise, as one of my biggest Allies, to remain in Congress to help me deliver Historic Tax Cuts, GREAT Jobs, Record Economic Growth, a Secure Border, Energy Dominance, Peace Through Strength, and much more, so we can MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN. With a very tight Majority, I don’t want to take a chance on anyone else running for Elise’s seat. The people love Elise and, with her, we have nothing to worry about come Election Day. There are others that can do a good job at the United Nations," Trump continued.
Stefanik said in an interview with Sean Hannity on Fox News, “I have been proud to be a team player. The president knows that. He and I had multiple conversations today, and we are committed to delivering results on behalf of the American people. And as always, I'm committed to delivering results on behalf of my constituents."
New York State conservative Party Chairman Gerry Kassar said, “First of all, I think it's a loss, a major loss to the United States that she's not going to be at the United Nations. I think she was perfect for the UN. I am not alone in feeling very, very disappointed. I wish this had not occurred.”
“I do not think we would have lost the seat. I feel confident we would have held the seat, so I'm disappointed that this request was made. I'm proud of Congresswoman Stefanik, who shows such loyalty and support for the president and his agenda. She is a good soldier in Trump's army,” Kassar said. “I was really looking forward to celebrating her advancement next Wednesday.”