Trump Nominates Rep. Elise Stefanik as U.N. Ambassador: Strong 'America First' Ally and GOP Fundraiser

Rep. Elise Stefanik as U.N. Ambassador

President-elect Donald Trump has selected Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik as his nominee for U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, a role that signals a more combative U.S. posture toward the international organization. Trump praised Stefanik as a "strong, tough, and smart America First fighter," highlighting her alignment with his foreign policy approach. Stefanik, a leading House Republican and Trump ally, has long been critical of the U.N., especially over its stance on Israel, and recently called for a reassessment of U.S. funding to the U.N. if the Palestinian Authority continues its efforts to revoke Israel's U.N. membership.

Stefanik has been a staunch supporter of Trump throughout his presidency, earning national recognition during the 2019 impeachment hearings for her vigorous defense of the president. She also objected to certifying Joe Biden's 2020 election victory and promoted Trump's claims of election fraud. However, Stefanik’s relationship with Trump was not always so solid. Initially a moderate Republican and occasional Trump critic, she shifted her stance as Trump gained popularity in her New York district, eventually becoming one of his most loyal defenders in Congress.

The congresswoman’s nomination marks a significant shift in U.S. diplomacy, with Trump placing a fierce ally at the U.N. after years of criticism toward the organization. Stefanik’s focus on strong U.S. interests and her outspoken defense of Israel align with Trump’s “America First” foreign policy. Her background as House Republican Conference Chair, along with her advocacy on issues such as combating antisemitism, positions her as a prominent figure within the party.

Stefanik replaces Nikki Haley, who served as U.N. Ambassador during Trump’s first term. Although Haley initially became a key figure in U.S. foreign policy, she later ran a contentious primary campaign against Trump for the 2024 election before endorsing him. Trump confirmed that Haley would not return to the U.N. role, making way for Stefanik’s appointment as the new face of U.S. diplomacy at the United Nations.

Trump Nominates Rep. Elise Stefanik as U.N. Ambassador: Strong 'America First' Ally and GOP Fundraiser