Breaking: Elise Stefanik to Push ‘America First’ at the UN as Trump’s Choice for Ambassador!
WASHINGTON — New York Representative Elise Stefanik has accepted an important role under President-elect Donald Trump as the new U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Stefanik, a Republican from upstate New York known for her tough stance on issues like campus antisemitism, will lead Trump’s “America First” and pro-Israel agenda at the UN.
In a statement to The Post, Trump, 78, praised Stefanik, calling her “strong, tough, and smart,” and stated that he’s honoured to have her in his Cabinet.
As the fourth-ranking Republican in the House, Stefanik has been a loyal ally to Trump, notably serving on his defence team during his first impeachment trial in 2020. She is a Harvard graduate and a prominent voice for Republican positions on various issues, setting her apart from her predecessor, UN Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, who was less visible in the media.
In a statement, Stefanik expressed her gratitude for Trump’s nomination and her excitement to represent the United States on a global stage. She added that she is honoured to earn Trump’s trust and looks forward to winning support from the U.S. Senate.
She praised Trump’s recent electoral win, calling it “historic” and a signal of hope for Americans, both domestically and internationally. Stefanik emphasized the importance of strong partnerships with allies, calling the U.S. a “beacon to the world.”
Stefanik joins the UN at a time when the organization faces criticism from conservatives, especially concerning the participation of countries like China and Cuba on the Human Rights Council.
These countries are frequently at odds with U.S. interests and have a history of passing resolutions critical of Israel. The UN’s handling of recent conflicts, such as the Israel-Hamas war, has also been questioned.
Previously, during his first term, Trump withdrew the U.S. from the UN’s World Health Organization (WHO) over disagreements on its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Retiring President Biden later rejoined the organization.
This appointment is one of Trump’s first major staffing decisions following his recent election victory over Vice President Kamala Harris. Trump also recently appointed Susie Wiles, his campaign chairwoman, as his White House chief of staff but has not yet named others for top positions.
Stefanik commented on the challenges ahead, including a rise in antisemitism and what she described as “weak U.S. leadership” over the last four years. She expressed readiness to support Trump’s vision of “peace through strength” on the global stage, starting from her first day at the UN.
Stefanik’s move will temporarily reduce the Republican majority in the House. According to New York law, Governor Kathy Hochul will need to call a special election within 10 days of the seat becoming vacant, with the election taking place within the following 70 to 80 days. The Republican nominee for this election will be chosen by local GOP leaders instead of through a primary.
Stefanik was recently re-elected with over 63% of the vote. A source familiar with the upcoming special election suggested the district leans heavily Republican and is “pro-Trump,” adding that any vacancy in the seat will likely be short-lived.