Trump announces Mike Waltz as UN ambassador pick
President Donald Trump has selected former National Security Advisor Mike Waltz to serve as the United States Ambassador to the United Nations after New York Rep. Elise Stefanik withdrew her nomination in order to retain her House seat amidst concerns over the GOP’s slim majority in the lower chamber. Trump made the announcement on Truth Social Thursday, praising Waltz for his dedication to putting the nation’s interests first.
Waltz, who previously served as a national security advisor in the Trump administration, was chosen for the role following Stefanik’s decision to step down from consideration. Several other names had been floated for the position, including David Friedman, Ellie Cohanim, and Richard Grenell, before Trump ultimately settled on Waltz.
Stefanik was initially announced as Trump’s pick for the U.N. ambassador role in November 2024, shortly after his successful re-election against former Vice President Kamala Harris. However, she withdrew her nomination last month due to concerns within Trump’s inner circle regarding the GOP’s narrow majority in the House.
The decision came as two special House elections in Florida on April 2 saw Republican victories, but with smaller margins than expected. Stefanik cited concerns over the GOP’s House margin, combined with the need to combat Democratic corruption in New York, as reasons for her withdrawal from consideration.
In his announcement on Truth Social, Trump thanked Stefanik for her decision to remain in Congress and pledged to continue working towards his administration’s goals, including tax cuts, job creation, economic growth, border security, energy dominance, and peace through strength.
During his first term, Trump made significant cuts to U.S. involvement in U.N. programs, including ending engagement with the U.N. Human Rights Council and halting funding for the U.N. relief agency for Gaza. He expressed his belief in the U.N.’s potential but criticized its effectiveness and called for improvements in its operations.
Waltz’s nomination as U.N. ambassador marks a new chapter in the Trump administration’s foreign policy efforts, with a focus on advancing America’s interests on the international stage. As he prepares to assume his new role, Waltz will undoubtedly bring his experience and dedication to serving the nation to the forefront of U.N. diplomacy.
