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The White House plans to withdraw Representative Elise Stefanik's nomination for the position of U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, according to Senate Foreign Relations Chairman Jim Risch. The decision comes amidst concerns about the slim Republican majority in the House of Representatives, which could hinder President Donald Trump's legislative agenda.
President Trump had initially nominated Stefanik, a New York congresswoman and longtime ally, following the November 2024 election. However, the narrow majority has made it challenging for House Republicans to pass key legislation without Democratic support. Currently, Republicans hold 218 seats to Democrats' 213, with four vacancies. This tight margin means Republicans can only afford two defections on party-line votes.
The nomination had been stalled in the Senate, despite Stefanik being reported favorably out of the Foreign Relations Committee in January.
President Trump announced the withdrawal on Truth Social, stating that Stefanik would remain in Congress to support his legislative goals, including tax cuts and energy policies. Trump emphasized the importance of her presence in Congress, given the tight majority, and expressed confidence in finding another candidate for the UN ambassador position.
"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." Trump wrote. here 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. Speaker Johnson is thrilled!"