WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York, a member of the House Republican leadership, declined to commit to certifying the results of the 2024 election in a recent interview on NBC News’ “Meet the Press.” Stefanik has gained attention for supporting former President Donald Trump’s unsubstantiated claims of widespread fraud in the 2020 election. She explained that she did not vote to certify the 2020 election results in Pennsylvania and other states because of alleged unconstitutional acts, which she believes circumvented state legislatures and unilaterally changed election laws.
During the interview, host Kristen Welker pressed Stefanik on whether she would vote to certify the 2024 election results regardless of the outcome. Stefanik did not provide a direct answer, instead criticizing efforts to remove Trump from the ballot in Colorado, Maine, and other states. She emphasized the need for a legal and valid election, suggesting that Democrats were attempting to suppress the American people’s decision-making process.
Welker reiterated her question, asking if Stefanik would only certify the results if Trump emerged as the winner. Stefanik responded that her decision would be based on the constitutionality of the election, highlighting her concerns about the alleged circumvention of the Constitution and the lack of involvement from state legislators in changing election laws.
Stefanik also defended Trump’s recent remarks referring to the January 6 rioters as “hostages.” She stood by her previous statements on the House floor, describing January 6 as a “truly tragic day for America.” However, she expressed concerns about the treatment of the individuals involved in the events.
President Joe Biden, in his first campaign speech of the year, rebuked Trump for what he sees as an “assault on democracy” and a threat to American institutions. Stefanik, on the other hand, argued that it is the Democrats who pose a threat to democracy, citing their attempts to remove Trump from the ballot in certain states.
Regarding Trump’s controversial comments labeling migrants as “poisoning the blood” of America, Stefanik dismissed the backlash and accused the media of bias. She linked the language to the Biden administration’s border policies and argued that the crisis at the border is leading to fentanyl-related deaths in her district.
In a separate interview on CBS’ “Face the Nation,” House Speaker Mike Johnson defended Trump’s use of the phrase “poisoning the blood,” stating that while he would not personally use that language, he understands Trump’s intent to prioritize America’s interests.
When asked about the possibility of serving as Trump’s vice president, Stefanik evaded the question, simply expressing her honor and pride in being the first member of Congress to endorse his re-election.
In conclusion, Rep. Elise Stefanik declined to commit to certifying the results of the 2024 election, emphasizing her concerns about alleged unconstitutional acts and the need for a legal and valid election. She defended Trump’s remarks, criticized Democrats, and dismissed the backlash to his language on migrants. Stefanik’s stance reflects the ongoing debates surrounding election integrity and partisan divisions in American politics.