Elise Stefanik has swiftly climbed the ranks of American politics since her election to Congress in 2014. Representing New York’s 21st congressional district, Stefanik has become a pivotal figure within the Republican Party, known for her strategic insight and strong support for President Donald Trump.
The Chair of the House Republican Conference, who holds the third-ranking position among House Republicans, has been a fantastic supporter of the president-elect and has played a significant role in fundraising for the GOP. It’s exciting news that President-elect Donald Trump has chosen her as his UN Ambassador!
Who is Elise Stefanik?
Elise Marie Stefanik, born on July 2, 1984, in Albany, New York, is a prominent American politician serving as the U.S. Representative for New York’s 21st congressional district since 2015. A Harvard University alumna with a degree in Government, Stefanik has made significant strides in her political career, blending youthful energy with seasoned leadership.
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Elise Marie Stefanik |
| Date of Birth | July 2, 1984 |
| Place of Birth | Albany, New York, USA |
| Age | 40 years (as of 2024) |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | – Bachelor of Arts in Government, Harvard University (2006) |
| Political Party | Republican |
| Current Role | U.S. Representative for New York’s 21st Congressional District (since 2015) |
| Leadership Position | Chair of the House Republican Conference (since May 2021) |
| Committee Assignments | – House Armed Services Committee – House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence – Committee on Education and the Workforce |
| Major Achievements | – Elected at age 30 in 2014 as the youngest woman ever elected to Congress (at that time) – Nominee for U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations (2024) – Vocal supporter of President Donald Trump – Opposed Trump’s first impeachment and supported contesting the 2020 election results |
| Previous Roles | – Staff member in the George W. Bush administration – Domestic Policy Council staff |
| Personal Life | – Married to Matthew Manda – Mother of one child |
| Residence | Schuylerville, New York |
Early Life and Education
Growing up in Albany, Stefanik was immersed in a supportive family environment. Her parents, Melanie and Kenneth Stefanik, owned a wholesale plywood distributor in Guilderland Center, New York. With Czech and Italian ancestry, Stefanik’s multicultural background fostered a diverse perspective from an early age.
At 14, she gained early public attention in a Times Union profile, expressing her support for Republican Senator Al D’Amato. This budding political interest led her to pursue a career in public service, especially in the wake of the September 11 attacks, which inspired her to engage in policy-making and governance.
Stefanik graduated from the Albany Academy for Girls before attending Harvard University, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Government in 2006. At Harvard, she was elected vice president of the Harvard Institute of Politics in 2004. She received an honorable mention for the Women’s Leadership Award, recognizing her efforts in advancing women’s roles in leadership.
Elise Stefanik Political Career
After graduating, Elise Stefanik entered the political arena by joining the George W. Bush administration. She served as a staff member for the Domestic Policy Council, where she gained valuable experience in policy development and governmental operations.
2014 Election
At 30, Stefanik made history by winning the Republican primary for New York’s 21st congressional district. Her campaign was marked by a strong emphasis on defense funding, support for local industries, and a commitment to bipartisan cooperation. She secured her seat in a region encompassing much of the Adirondacks and North Country by appealing to both traditional conservatives and moderate voters.
Committee Assignments
Stefanik’s effectiveness in Congress led to her appointment to several key committees:
- House Armed Services Committee: Advocated for increased defense spending and support for military installations like Fort Drum.
- House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Contributed to national security and intelligence operations oversight.
- Committee on Education and the Workforce: Focused on improving workforce training and reducing regulatory burdens on small businesses.
In May 2021, Stefanik was elected Chair of the House Republican Conference, ascending to the third-ranking position within the House Republicans. This role has amplified her influence, allowing her to shape the party’s legislative agenda and strategic direction.
Alignment with Donald Trump
Initially regarded as a moderate Republican, Stefanik’s political stance evolved as she became a vocal supporter of President Donald Trump.
Her opposition to Trump’s first impeachment and her support for contesting the 2020 election results underscored her alignment with the party’s more conservative and populist elements.
Nomination for U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations
In 2024, Stefanik was nominated to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, reflecting her growing prominence and the party leadership’s trust in her. This nomination highlights her expertise in foreign policy and her ability to represent American interests on the global stage.
Personal Life
Elise Stefanik married Matthew Manda on August 19, 2017, in Saratoga Springs, New York. Matthew, who works in marketing and communications, supports her demanding political career while managing their family life. The couple resides in Schuylerville, New York, and shares a close-knit family dynamic.
Elise Stefanik has one child, Samuel Albritton, born in 2021. They prioritize spending quality time together, balancing their professional responsibilities with their roles as parents.
Elise Stefanik’s Measurements
Elise Stefanik presents herself with confidence and poise, embodying the professionalism expected of a high-ranking politician. Here are her reported physical measurements:
| Attribute | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm) |
| Weight | Approximately 58 kg (128 lbs) |
These measurements are based on publicly available information.
Elise Stefanik Net Worth
According to her 2023 financial disclosure report, Elise Stefanik’s net worth ranges between $244,993 and $414,997.
Her assets include a residential rental property in Washington, D.C., valued between $250,001 and $500,000, and various investment accounts.
FAQs on Elise Stefanik
1. What is Elise Stefanik’s religion?
Elise Stefanik is Roman Catholic, which aligns with her family’s religious background.
2. What is Elise Stefanik’s ethnicity?
Elise Stefanik is of Caucasian ethnicity, with American roots.
3. Who are Elise Stefanik’s parents, and what is their nationality?
Elise Stefanik’s parents are Ken Stefanik and Melanie Stefanik. They are both of American nationality and run a small business in New York.
4. Who is Elise Stefanik’s husband?
Elise Stefanik is married to Matthew Manda. Manda is a communications and marketing director for a fire equipment company.
5. What district does Elise Stefanik represent?
Elise Stefanik represents New York’s 21st Congressional District, which covers much of the Adirondack Mountains and North Country in upstate New York.
6. Is Elise Stefanik Catholic?
Yes, Elise Stefanik is a practicing Roman Catholic.
7. What is Elise Stefanik’s education?
Elise Stefanik attended Harvard University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Government in 2006.
Elise Stefanik’s U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations nomination highlights her importance in the Republican Party! She’s set to play a big role in shaping both domestic and international policies. As she champions her district and works towards her party’s goals, Stefanik continues to be a lively and influential voice in the constantly evolving world of American politics.
