Who is Elise Stefanik, Trump's selection for UN post that Nikki Haley once held?

United States President-elect Donald Trump has selected New York Congresswoman Elise Stefanik to serve as the US Ambassador to the United Nations, a role previously held by former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley during Trump’s first term.

Trump first confirmed this decision in a statement accessed by the New York Post, expressing high confidence in Stefanik’s capabilities. “Elise is an incredibly strong, tough, and smart America First fighter,” he said, marking a shift from Haley, who ran a spirited campaign against him during the recent Republican primary.

Stefanik has been a staunch supporter of Trump for years, transitioning from a moderate conservative to a leading pro-Trump advocate and prominent figure within the Republican Party.

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Who is Elise Stefanik?

Born on July 2, 1984, Elise Marie Stefanik represents New York’s 21st congressional district, covering the North Country, Adirondack Mountains, and parts of New York’s Capital District.

At age 30, she became the youngest woman elected to Congress in 2014, initially distinguishing herself as a moderate conservative. She voted against Trump’s 2017 tax plan, reflecting her early alignment with figures like former House Speaker Paul Ryan, who once lauded her as a “builder” in an era marked by partisan division.

Her political trajectory dramatically shifted as she grew closer to Trump’s policies and personality, a move driven partly by Trump’s popularity in her district. She opposed Trump’s first impeachment in 2019 and vocally defended him in his 2020 election loss, even objecting to the certification of Joe Biden’s victory.

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This alignment with Trump solidified her position within the GOP, culminating in her election as House Republican Conference Chair in 2021, following Liz Cheney’s removal for opposing Trump’s election claims.

Is Stefanik controversial?

Stefanik’s career has not been without controversy. Her objection to certifying Biden’s win and her support for Trump’s election fraud claims placed her at the center of a national debate on democracy and election integrity.

Additionally, she faced backlash during the January 6 Capitol attack investigation, when she pointedly blamed Speaker Nancy Pelosi for the violence, further polarising opinion on her role.

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Stefanik’s strong stance on other issues has also drawn attention. In December 2023, her fierce questioning of university presidents during a congressional hearing on antisemitism led to the resignation of Liz Magill, the president of the University of Pennsylvania.

Her aggressive tactics earned both praise and criticism, positioning her as one of the GOP’s more vocal culture warriors on Capitol Hill.

Why did Trump choose Stefanik over Haley?

Trump’s decision to appoint Stefanik reflects a deeper shift within the Republican Party. Nikki Haley, a former ambassador and one-time primary rival, openly criticised Trump during her campaign, notably on issues like US support for Ukraine, which Trump opposed.

She accused him of alienating women and minorities with his controversial rhetoric. After Haley withdrew from the race, she offered a guarded endorsement of Trump, saying, “I don’t agree with Mr. Trump 100% of the time. But I do agree with him most of the time, and I disagree with Ms. Harris nearly all the time.”

Nevertheless, Trump publicly stated he would not be “inviting” Haley back, a move that many interpret as a sign of lingering tensions from their primary rivalry. Trump also excluded former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, another past ally, from his future administration.

In his announcement, Trump wrote, “I will not be inviting former Ambassador Nikki Haley, or former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, to join the Trump Administration, which is currently in formation. I very much enjoyed and appreciated working with them previously, and would like to thank them for their service to our Country. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN.”

Haley responded diplomatically, posting on X, “I was proud to work with President Trump defending America at the United Nations. I wish him, and all who serve, great success in moving us forward to a stronger, safer America over the next four years.”

I was proud to work with President Trump defending America at the United Nations. I wish him, and all who serve, great success in moving us forward to a stronger, safer America over the next four years. pic.twitter.com/6PhWN6xn1B

— Nikki Haley (@NikkiHaley) November 10, 2024

What can Stefanik bring to her role as US ambassador to the UN?

As she prepares to step into the role of US Ambassador to the UN, Stefanik will bring a markedly different approach from her predecessor.

Known for her unyielding “America First” stance, her record of aligning with Trump’s policies, and her support for Trump’s foreign policy agenda, Stefanik’s appointment signals a continuation of Trump’s commitment to reshaping US diplomatic strategies.

Observers believe her close alliance with Trump, extensive fundraising capabilities, and her history of defending his policies in Congress make her an ideal candidate to advance his foreign policy goals on the global stage.

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Stefanik’s ability to command GOP support is also seen as an asset. Her expertise as a member of the House Armed Services Committee and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence gives her the relevant experience to handle the complex diplomatic issues she will face at the United Nations.

Her status as the most senior Republican in New York further cements her influence within the party. With her track record of confronting opponents and navigating party shifts, she will likely bring a new, assertive energy to America’s representation on the world stage.

With inputs from agencies