Former President Trump gave House Elise Stefanik (RN.Y.) a strong endorsement Friday, calling her “INTELLIGENT, STRONG and TOUGH” ahead of the state’s primary elections.
“Elise Stefanik is an incredible representative of the amazing people of New York 21.st Congressional District”, Trump posted for his Truth Social website. “An America First patriot, Elise is fighting to protect [our country] against the Marxists, fascists and communists of the radical left.”
The former president praised Stefanik for working to support military personnel and veterans, growing the economy and reducing inflation, promoting American energy and “protecting our southern border under siege.”
“Elise Stefanik is SMART, STRONG and TOUGH – she has my complete and total endorsement!” he wrote Friday.
Stefanik, the Republican conference chairman, has been steadily rising through the ranks of the Republican Party for years. But after openly questioning university presidents about anti-Semitism on campus at a hearing last year, his popularity exploded and there were rumors that he would join Trump in the election this fall.
Stefanik won New York’s 21stst Congressional District in 2013, flipping the district and becoming the first Republican to win the seat in 21 years. According to The Hill/Decision Desk HQ, the district is a safe Republican seat.
Instead of competing in the primary election this week, Stefanik and her Democratic opponent, Paula Collins, will both advance to the general elections as the only candidates for their respective parties.
On Capitol Hill, she has become one of Trump’s most vocal defenders, even rushing to his defense after the presumptive GOP nominee was convicted in his recent silent trial.
Last month, she avoided being asked whether Trump had discussed her being a potential running mate and noted that there were “a lot of names” being considered.
Speculation swirls around who Trump will choose as his vice president. He said he plans to announce his choice at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee next month.
This story originally appeared on thehill.com read the full story
