Democrats on the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations seemed broadly supportive of Rep. Elise Stefanik, President Donald Trump’s nominee for United Nations ambassador. But questions about her future boss’ executive actions and the administration’s commitments around the globe took up most of the time during her confirmation hearing Tuesday.
While Republicans and Democrats alike praised Stefanik’s record in the House and qualifications for the role, some of the tensest exchanges came over the actions Trump took in his first 24 hours to withdraw the U.S. from international institutions, including the World Health Organization and the Paris climate agreement. In another executive order yesterday, Trump initiated a 90-day pause in foreign assistance for a review of all foreign development assistance.
Stefanik was quick to stand by the orders.