Elise Stefanik Stays in Congress at Trump's Request Amid Narrow Republican Majority

President Trump announced on Thursday that he had asked Representative Elise Stefanik of New York to remain in Congress rather than accept the role of U.N. ambassador. This decision comes amid concerns over the slim Republican majority in the House.

“There are others who can excel at the United Nations,” Trump stated on his Truth Social platform, emphasizing the importance of maintaining every Republican seat. He added, “Therefore, Elise will stay in Congress, rejoin the House Leadership Team, and continue to fight for our incredible American People.”

Trump hinted that he could offer Stefanik another position in his administration down the line. For the time being, he remarked that Speaker Mike Johnson was “delighted” with this outcome.

The change in plans was unexpected for Stefanik, who was originally Trump’s first cabinet nominee and anticipated Senate confirmation soon.

This shift highlights the vulnerable position of House Republicans, who cannot afford to lose any members when the majority is so tight. Previously, Johnson had stressed that losing Stefanik would be detrimental as he navigated crucial votes, such as the budget plan, through the House.

The situation also spotlights fears within Trump’s party regarding the security of traditionally safe Republican districts, like Stefanik’s in upstate New York.

Stefanik herself seemed ready to move on, having spent time sharing memories on Instagram and conducting a farewell tour throughout her district.

Her nomination for the U.N. position was expected to proceed after April 1, coinciding with two Trump-backed Republicans filling vacated seats in Florida. This followed the departures of former Representatives Mike Waltz and Matt Gaetz, who were selected for roles in Trump’s administration, though Gaetz eventually declined his nomination for attorney general amid pushback.

Rising concern over the special election to replace Waltz now worries Republicans. Once seen as a secure seat, it has morphed into a competitive showdown, partly due to controversies involving Waltz.

According to insiders, Trump is frustrated over Waltz’s involvement in a leaked high-level military chat including The Atlantic’s editor, complicating efforts to retain his Florida seat.

Trump expressed reluctance to see a repeat scenario with Stefanik’s exit. “With a very slim majority, I don’t want to risk another candidate for Elise’s seat,” he wrote.

Stefanik had looked forward to the cabinet position, having stepped down from a leadership role in the House, released many staff members, and not sitting on subcommittees, as she prepared for her Senate confirmation.

Having participated in Trump’s first cabinet meeting and chosen to sit among the cabinet during his Congress address, Stefanik’s focus had been on her prospective new role.

Speaker Johnson publicly invited Stefanik to “return to the leadership table immediately” on social media, although it remains unclear what role she will take, given that her previous conference chair position is occupied by Representative Lisa McClain of Michigan, who reportedly is not stepping down.