Trump Says He’s Broken All Modern Staffing Records
Former President Donald Trump asserted in a late-night post on his Truth Social platform that his administration had achieved record-breaking staffing levels within just a few months of taking office, filling more than 2,200 positions.
“My Administration is breaking all modern Presidential Staffing Records since taking Office on January 20th. The Presidential Personnel Office has made over 2,200 offers, all accepted, to exceptionally qualified Candidates, who are helping us MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN. We have sent more Nominations to the Senate than anyone ever before, and will continue to hire America First Patriots as we work together to unleash our Nation’s Golden Age!” Trump declared on Truth Social.
Although Trump successfully secured confirmation for most of his Cabinet selections, he rescinded Rep. Elise Stefanik’s nomination for the role of U.S. ambassador to the United Nations on Thursday. He justified the decision by stating that losing the New York Republican in the House could negatively impact his legislative agenda.
“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,” he 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,” Trump added.
With a narrow House majority of 218-213, Republicans can only afford to lose two votes on any strictly party-line bill. Stefanik stepping down to accept the UN position would have placed key legislative efforts regarding border security, energy, and taxation at risk, according to a report by the New York Post.
Individuals familiar with the situation described the withdrawal as both “absurd” and “a surprise,” the outlet reported.
“It’s a surprise. It’s a bombshell. Trump made a decision — and that’s it,” a New York Republican official said anonymously.
Stefanik had been expected to receive Senate confirmation on April 2, with an introductory press event scheduled at UN headquarters in Turtle Bay the following day.
Prior to the official withdrawal, a source connected to the administration revealed that “there’s been recent talks between [the] White House and Speaker [Mike Johnson]’s office about if it’s in [the] best interest of [the] House Majority and president’s agenda to pull the nomination.” That source told The Post that the decision ultimately came down to “all about the math.”
“With a very tight Majority, I don’t want to take a chance on anyone else running for Elise’s seat,” Trump stated. “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.”
House Speaker Johnson (R-La.) later issued a statement welcoming Stefanik back to leadership, despite her previous role as conference chair now being occupied by Rep. Lisa McClain (R-Mich.).
“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,” Johnson said. “There is no doubt she would have served with distinction as our ambassador to the United Nations, but we are grateful for her willingness to sacrifice that position and remain in Congress to help us save the country.”
Stefanik, 40, had been one of the earliest Trump nominees to go through the vetting process and was approved by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee via voice vote on January 30.