Trump Withdraws Stefanik’s UN Nomination to Safeguard GOP House Majority

In a strategic political move, former President Donald Trump announced the withdrawal of Rep. Elise Stefanik’s nomination for U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, citing the importance of preserving the Republican majority in the House of Representatives. The decision keeps one of the GOP’s most outspoken pro-Israel voices in Congress at a critical time.

Trump took to Truth Social to make the announcement, explaining, “With a very tight majority, I don’t want to take a chance on anyone else running for Elise’s seat.” The GOP currently holds a narrow 218-213 majority in the House, and losing Stefanik’s upstate New York district even temporarily could imperil key legislative priorities.

Stefanik had stepped down from her role as chair of the House Republican Conference in anticipation of her U.N. appointment. Her nomination had drawn praise from pro-Israel communities for her firm stance against antisemitism and her consistent support for the Jewish state, particularly within the often-hostile environment of the United Nations.

Despite representing a strongly Republican district, New York Democrats had previously taken steps to delay any potential special election. With state Senate Democrats backing off a bill that would have allowed the governor to postpone the race until November, concerns mounted within the GOP over potential vulnerabilities.

Trump’s decision also comes amid GOP anxiety over a special election in Florida’s 6th Congressional District, where, despite his previous landslide victory there, recent polling shows a competitive race.

House Speaker Mike Johnson welcomed Stefanik’s return to leadership, praising her loyalty to the America First agenda. “Her decision shows what those of us who work with her already know she is deeply devoted to her country and fully committed to seeing President Trump’s agenda succeed in Congress,” Johnson said.

Stefanik has been an unwavering ally of Israel in the House, regularly taking bold stands against antisemitism and defending Israel’s right to self-defense. Her continued presence in Congress ensures that those values remain represented at the highest levels of U.S. legislative power.

While Trump has not yet announced a replacement nominee for the U.N. post, keeping Stefanik in the House is a calculated move to maintain momentum on his policy goals and reinforce Republican unity ahead of a critical election cycle.

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