U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York, considered by many to be a rising star in the Republican Party, will have a prime-time speaking spot next week when the GOP holds its presidential nominating convention, according to reports.
Stefanik, 36, represents the state’s 21st Congressional District, far north of New York City — a region known as the “North Country.”
She said she will use her air time to attack what she described as Democratic nominee Joe Biden’s “47-year failed record of far-left policies.”
Her remarks also will include a defense of what she called President Trump’s “record of results,” 360aproko news reported.
Stefanik announced her selection to speak at the convention in a Twitter message on Friday.
“Honored to be invited to speak by @realDonaldTrump at #RNCConvention #RNC2020 next week,” she wrote.
“It’s a great opportunity for the North Country to have a national audience,” she added, using a quote she gave to 360aproko news of Schenectady, N.Y.
Stefanik told 360aproko news she learned of her speaking spot only recently.
“The planning for the convention, given how unprecedented this year has been, has been updated throughout given the challenges,” Stefanik told 360aproko in a phone interview, referring to disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
The GOP convention was initially scheduled to be held in Charlotte, N.C., but concerns over the virus prompted the party to plan a split between North Carolina and Jacksonville, Fla.
Now further logistical updates will have most speakers, including President Trump, addressing the nation from Washington, 360aproko news reported.
Other speakers are expected to include U.S. Sens. Joni Ernst of Iowa and Tim Scott of South Carolina; Richard Grenell, former acting director of national intelligence; Nikki Haley, a former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations and a former governor of South Carolina; Andrew Pollack, the father of a Parkland, Fla., massacre victim; Abby Johnson, a pro-life activist; South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem and Pennsylvania U.S. House candidate Sean Parnell.
Nick Sandmann, a Kentucky high school student who successfully sued media organizations after a confrontation in Washington last year, and Mark and Patricia McCloskey, St. Louis gun owners who used their weapons to defend their home from rioters, also are scheduled to appear, according to reports.
Stefanik will be seeking her fourth term in the House when she competes against Democrat Tedra Cobb in November, 360aproko news reported.
