The House Republicans have held their slim majority of 218 to 215 since January, since both Matt Gaetz and Mike Walz resigned, ostensibly to take positions in the Trump Administration. Walz became National Security Advisor and Gaetz ultimately withdrew his name from consideration as Attorney General.
Both open seats will have special elections in Florida this coming Tuesday. The Republican candidates are expected to win. That will give the Republicans a little breathing room at 220 to 215.
Meanwhile, Representative Elise Stefanik, who Trump nominated as UN Ambassador has not yet resigned due to the current Arithmetic issue. In addition, threats were made by the Democrat-controlled Governor and Legislature in Albany to delay a special election had Stefanik resigned, in order to potentially elect a Democrat replacement from her deep Red New York district.
This prompted President Trump and Representative Stefanik to announce Thursday afternoon that she would be withdrawing her name for consideration to be the US Ambassador to the UN.
“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,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
“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,” he added.
And true form, she did so. As a result, she will again have a leadership role in the Republican-controlled House.
“Elise Stefanik is truly a great leader and a devoted patriot. Today’s selfless decision shows America what those of us who work with her already know. She is deeply devoted to her country and fully committed to see President Trump’s agenda succeed in Congress,” Speaker Mike Johnson said.
Stefanik was considered on a glide path to confirmation after receiving gushing endorsements from Republicans, as well as, Democratic Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, the moderating voice of Democrats in the Senate.
For now, she will be an instrumental voice to push the Trump “America First” agenda, as one of the most loyal Trump supporters in the entire Congress. She is like the actor in the old EF Hutton commercial from not that long ago.
To paraphrase, “When Elise Stefanik talks, people listen.”
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