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Congresswoman Elise Stefanik's confirmation vote to become the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations is scheduled for Wednesday, April 2. President Donald Trump nominated Stefanik for the position nearly five months ago, but her confirmation was delayed due to the Republican Party's slim majority in the House of Representatives. The Senate vote is expected to proceed without significant contention.
Stefanik's confirmation comes after two special elections in Florida, which are anticipated to add two more Trump-endorsed Republicans to the House, potentially strengthening the GOP's position. Once confirmed, Stefanik will resign from her role as the representative for New York's 21st Congressional District. This will prompt Governor Kathy Hochul to schedule a special election within 10 days, to be held within the following 70 to 80 days.
The Democrats have already chosen Blake Gendebien, a dairy farmer from Lisbon, as their candidate for the special election. Meanwhile, the Republicans are still interviewing candidates, including State Senator Dan Stec and former congressional candidate Liz Joy. The special election is expected to take place in late June or early July.
According to the Times Union, Stefanik has been balancing her congressional duties with attending Cabinet meetings since January.