Nearly all of President Donald Trump's Cabinet officials and high-level nominees have been confirmed by the Senate with one conspicuous absence -- Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY), whom Trump nominated to serve as the next U.S. ambassador to the United Nations.

On Thursday, however, recent rumors were confirmed that Trump had withdrawn Stefanik's nomination from Senate consideration, according to The Hill.

The move appears to be a politically strategic one, as the congresswoman's continued presence in the House, where Republicans hold an exceedingly slim majority, was determined to be more important at this point than her future service representing the nation at the U.N.

Stefanik's nomination has been on hold

The Hill reported that President Trump first named Rep. Stefanik as his choice to be the next U.N. ambassador shortly after his re-election in November, and he made that nomination official on his first day in office in January when he submitted her name to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee for consideration.

The committee held a confirmation hearing for Stefanik the very next day, but since then, her nomination has been held in limbo, and no further action has been taken, likely because of the risk her eventual confirmation and departure from the House would pose to the meager Republican majority.

Indeed, there are legitimate concerns that Democratic New York Gov. Kathy Hochul could drag her feet in scheduling a special election to replace Stefanik, potentially leaving her district without representation and the GOP short one seat for months, not to mention the possibility, though far less likely in the solidly red district, that a Democratic candidate might be elected as the congresswoman's replacement.

In the meantime, however, Stefanik made preparations to join the Trump administration, including giving up her position on the House Republican leadership team and saying her goodbyes to colleagues and constituents.

Trump announces withdrawal of Stefanik's nomination

Everything changed on Thursday, though, when President Trump posted on Truth Social, "As we advance our America First Agenda, it is essential that we maintain EVERY Republican Seat in Congress. We must be unified to accomplish our Mission, and Elise Stefanik has been a vital part of our efforts from the very beginning."

"I have asked Elise, as one of my biggest Allies, to remain in Congress to help me deliver Historic Tax Cuts, GREAT Jobs, Record Economic Growth, a Secure Border, Energy Dominance, Peace Through Strength, and much more, so we can MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN," he continued. "With a very tight Majority, I don’t want to take a chance on anyone else running for Elise’s seat. The people love Elise and, with her, we have nothing to worry about come Election Day."

"There are others that can do a good job at the United Nations. Therefore, Elise will stay in Congress, rejoin the House Leadership Team, and continue to fight for our amazing American People," the president added. "Speaker Johnson is thrilled! I look forward to the day when Elise is able to join my Administration in the future. She is absolutely FANTASTIC. Thank you Elise!"

Speaker Johnson grateful Stefanik will remain in the House for now

In response to that announcement, House Speaker Mike Johnson said in an X post, "Elise Stefanik is truly a great leader and a devoted patriot. Today’s selfless decision shows America what those of us who work with her already know. She is deeply devoted to her country and fully committed to see President Trump’s agenda succeed in Congress."

"It is well known Republicans have a razor-thin House majority, and Elise’s agreement to withdraw her nomination will allow us to keep one of the toughest, most resolute members of our Conference in place to help drive forward President Trump’s America First policies," he continued.

"There is no doubt she would have served with distinction as our ambassador to the United Nations, but we are grateful for her willingness to sacrifice that position and remain in Congress to help us save the country," the speaker added. "I will invite her to return to the leadership table immediately."

The Hill noted that Rep. Stefanik doesn't appear to have publicly acknowledged the change yet, and her office declined a request for comment.