President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that he withdraws Elise Stefanik’s nomination for U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, opting to keep her in Congress to protect the Republican Party’s slim House majority.
“With a very tight majority, I don’t want to take a chance on anyone else running for Elise’s seat,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
“There are others that can do a good job at the United Nations. Therefore, Elise will stay in Congress, rejoin the House Leadership Team, and continue to fight for our amazing American People,” he added.
Trump has not yet announced a new nominee for the UN ambassador role.
Republicans regained control of both the House and Senate in the 2024 election that returned Trump to the White House. However, their grip on the House is fragile, holding just a 218-213 majority, making every vote critical for advancing legislation.
House Speaker Mike Johnson praised Stefanik’s decision, emphasizing the importance of keeping strong leadership in Congress.
“It is well known Republicans have a razor-thin House majority, and Elise’s agreement to withdraw her nomination will allow us to keep one of the toughest, most resolute members of our Conference in place to help drive forward