President Trump has made a decision to withdraw his pick for U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), citing concerns over potentially losing her congressional seat. In a statement on Friday, the President stated that he did not want to risk losing Stefanik’s seat in Congress, calling it “politics 101.”
According to President Trump, he had a conversation with Stefanik and asked her to withdraw from the nomination process. He stated, “We don’t want to take any chances, so I went to Elise and I said, ‘Elise, do you…'” The President did not finish his sentence, but it is clear that he was referring to the potential risk of losing her seat in Congress.
Stefanik, who has been a strong supporter of the President, was initially nominated for the position of U.S. ambassador to the United Nations in May. However, her nomination faced opposition from some members of the Senate, who raised concerns about her lack of experience in foreign policy.
Despite this, Stefanik’s nomination was seen as a strategic move by the President, as she is a rising star in the Republican Party and has been a vocal defender of the President during the impeachment inquiry. Her nomination was also seen as a way to appeal to female voters, as she is the youngest woman ever elected to Congress.
However, with the 2020 elections approaching, the President seems to have prioritized keeping Stefanik in her congressional seat rather than risking it for a position in the United Nations. This decision has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising the President for putting the needs of his party first, while others criticize him for not standing by his initial nomination.
In his statement, President Trump also praised Stefanik for her work in Congress, stating, “She’s a tremendous person. She’s a tremendous supporter of mine. She’s a tremendous supporter of the Republican Party.” He also expressed his confidence in her ability to continue serving in Congress and helping the party in the upcoming elections.
Stefanik, in her own statement, thanked the President for the nomination and stated that she was honored to have been considered for the position. She also reaffirmed her commitment to serving her constituents in New York’s 21st congressional district.
This decision by President Trump highlights the importance of maintaining a strong majority in Congress for the Republican Party. With the impeachment inquiry and the upcoming elections, the President and his party cannot afford to lose any seats in Congress. This move also shows the President’s strategic thinking and his ability to make tough decisions for the benefit of his party.
In conclusion, President Trump’s decision to withdraw Rep. Elise Stefanik as his pick for U.S. ambassador to the United Nations is a clear example of putting the needs of the party first. While some may criticize this decision, it is a strategic move to ensure the Republican Party maintains a strong majority in Congress. Stefanik’s commitment to serving her constituents and the party is commendable, and she will continue to be a valuable asset in Congress.
