On March 27, 2025, President Donald Trump announced the withdrawal of his nomination for Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. This decision was made in order to maintain the Republican majority in the House of Representatives.
Stefanik explained her decision to remain in Congress as a "team player" decision and expressed her commitment to the American people and her constituents.
"I have been proud to be a team player. The president knows that. He and I had multiple conversations today, and we are committed to delivering results on behalf of the American people. And as always, I'm committed to delivering results on behalf of my constituents."
President Trump explained his decision on his social media platform, Truth Social, emphasizing the importance of maintaining every Republican seat in Congress.
"As we advance our America First Agenda, it is essential that we maintain EVERY Republican Seat in Congress. We must be unified to accomplish our mission, and Elise Stefanik has been a vital part of our efforts from the very beginning."
The president also expressed his desire for Stefanik to remain in Congress to assist in the delivery of significant policy objectives, such as tax cuts and economic growth.
"I have asked Elise, as one of my biggest Allies, to remain in Congress to help me deliver Historic Tax Cuts, GREAT Jobs, Record Economic Growth, a Secure Border, Energy Dominance, Peace Through Strength, and much more, so we can MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN. With a very tight Majority, I don’t want to take a chance on anyone else running for Elise’s seat."
Despite appearing poised for Senate confirmation, Stefanik had been under pressure to withdraw her nomination. Factors contributing to this included the fragile majority held by House Republicans and internal politics in Stefanik's home district.
Concerns over potential delays in a future special election in New York, due to its primary structure and lack of GOP cohesion, were also evident. There were fears that New York Gov. Kathy Hochul could potentially delay the election, leaving Stefanik's seat open for an extended period if she moved to the UN role.
President Trump also announced that Stefanik would rejoin the House GOP leadership team. While specifics of this role were not detailed, Stefanik expressed her intent to continue speaking out.
"The good news is because I am not pending confirmation, the American people will be hearing a lot more from me."
In the wake of this decision, Stefanik is set to continue her existing role in Congress, despite the potential career advancement offered by the UN ambassador role. This decision forms part of a larger pattern of nomination withdrawals and personnel changes within President Trump's second term.