Just days after voting to oust conference chair Liz Cheney, House republicans voted Friday on her replacement: Rep. Elise Stefanik.
Thank you to my House GOP colleagues, President Trump, and my constituents in #NY21 for the opportunity to serve as House Republican Conference Chair. I am truly humbled and honored. pic.twitter.com/Seq6lrnh0R
— Elise Stefanik (@EliseStefanik) May 14, 2021
Republicans convened around 8:30 Friday morning at the Congressional Visitors Center, the same location where they expelled Cheney from the position, CNBC reports.
The vote, conducted by secret ballot, was 134-46.
We will remain focused on fighting for the American people, growing our economy, reopening our schools, securing our borders, promoting energy independence, and protecting our Constitution.
— Elise Stefanik (@EliseStefanik) May 14, 2021
Stefanik became popular within the GOP when she vehemently defended Trump during his first impeachment trial in 2019.
“My focus is on unity, because that’s what the American people, and that’s what our voters deserve,” Stefanik told reporters after the vote.
She expressed gratitude to Trump, calling him “a critical part of our republican team.”
Many predicted Stefanik would be voted in to replace Cheney, though some lawmakers complained she wasn’t conservative enough for the job. She even faced a last minute challenger: Chip Roy.
The New York republican – who previously chaired the moderate Tuesday Group – locked down key endorsements early, with Trump, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy and Minority Whip Steve Scalise voicing their support for her candidacy.
