Former Representative Liz Cheney, a Wyoming Republican who has faced isolation from allies of former President Trump, took to an online platform on Tuesday to describe House GOP Conference Chair Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) as a “total crackpot.” Cheney, previously a key figure in the investigation into the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack, shared a link to Stefanik’s prior statement condemning the mob’s attempt to halt the certification of President Biden’s election in 2020.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Cheney expressed her expectation that Stefanik would eventually need to explain the transformation that led to her being labeled a “total crackpot.” This criticism comes after Stefanik succeeded Cheney as the No. 4 in the House GOP leadership following Cheney’s removal for supporting Trump’s impeachment related to the January 6 attack. Trump endorsed Cheney’s primary opponent in the 2022 midterms, resulting in Cheney’s electoral defeat.
Stefanik, once considered a House moderate, is now perceived as a potential running mate for Trump if he secures the GOP nomination. She has actively defended Trump against criticism during her recent campaign activities. Notably, Stefanik addressed reports of Trump’s apparent confusion between Nikki Haley and Nancy Pelosi, dismissing them and accusing Haley of relying on Democrats.
Cheney, in her December-released book, characterized Stefanik’s transition from a “reasonable and thoughtful” lawmaker to a “Trump sycophant.” Stefanik, in a statement on January 6, 2021, condemned the Capitol violence and emphasized the need for prosecution. A year later, she criticized the lack of answers regarding Capitol vulnerability and security. Stefanik’s team dismissed Cheney’s latest critique, asserting Cheney’s relevance lies in her role in the January 6 Select Committee investigation.