Elise Stefanik Out as Trump's UN Ambassador Nominee—Who Could Replace Her?

President Donald Trump pulled Representative Elise Stefanik's nomination to become United Nations ambassador on Thursday amid concerns about how her confirmation would affect Republicans' slim majority in the House. It is unclear who will replace her.

Newsweek reached out to the White House via email for comment.

Why It Matters

Whoever replaces Stefanik, a New York Republican, will have a key role in the Trump administration's foreign policy. Since returning to office, Trump has defined his foreign policy by tariffs and taking a more critical approach to U.S. aid to Ukraine, sparring with President Volodymyr Zelensky in the first few months of his term.

Although Stefanik represents a generally Republican district, Democrats have overperformed in recent special elections, stirring concerns about whether the race for her seat could become more competitive than expected.

"The people love Elise and, with her, we have nothing to worry about come Election Day. There 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!" Trump wrote on Truth Social.

What To Know

Trump has not said who he plans to appoint in Stefanik's place, but he has reportedly considered several individuals for the position over the years.

Richard Grenell, who Trump appointed as special presidential envoy for special missions, is already being floated by some conservatives as a potential candidate. He was reportedly considered for the role during Trump's first term. Grennell is a staunch Trump defender with foreign policy experience, previously serving as Trump's ambassador to Germany.

Conservative journalist Nick Sortor is among those calling on Trump to appoint Grenell to the position.

Trump could also turn to those who served in the position during his first term. While he already said he would not appoint former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley in his second administration, he hasn't said whether he would consider her successor, Kelly Craft. However, it's unclear whether she is interested in serving again.

Trump reportedly considered Representative John James, a Michigan Republican, for the role during his first term. However, his appointment would also endanger a Republican House seat, as his district is more competitive than Stefanik's.

Goldman Sachs executive Dina Powell was also considered for the position during Trump's first term.

What People Are Saying

Pollster Nate Silver on X, formerly Twitter: "Uhhhh, they're worried about a special election in a district that Trump won by 20 points. And perhaps not irrationally so."

Representative Max Miller, an Ohio Republican, on X: "Elise Stefanik is tough, smart, and ready to put America first on the world stage. She is the voice we need to fix the corrupt and broken United Nations. The House Majority is solid, together, and ready to fight for the America First agenda."

Representative Ted Lieu, a California Democrat, on X: "If the Administration's action were popular, then they wouldn't have pulled Stefanik's nomination. But what Trump is doing is not popular. It's bats*** crazy. Americans are fed up with the incompetence, lying and illegal behavior. That's why Dems keep winning special elections."

What Happens Next

Trump will likely announce his pick in the coming weeks to fill the position.