WASHINGTON – Upstate New York Rep. Elise Stefanik is among eight House members who will serve on President Donald Trump’s impeachment defense team, the White House announced Monday night.

The eight Republicans are part of an initial list of members of Congress who will represent Trump in the Senate impeachment trial due to start Tuesday.

The White House did not disclose what roles the House members may be asked to fill in the Senate trial.

“The president looks forward to their continued participation and is confident that the members will help expeditiously end this brazen political vendetta on behalf of the American people,” the White House said in a statement.

Trump declared Stefanik a GOP rising star in November after she emerged as one of his most outspoken defenders during impeachment hearings in the House Intelligence Committee.

Stefanik, R-Schuylerville, who represents a sprawling North Country district, is among two New York House members on the team. The other is Rep. Lee Zeldin, R-Long Island, a longtime Trump ally.

The six others asked to help defend the president are GOP Reps. Doug Collins, Mike Johnson, Jim Jordan, Debbie Lesko, Mark Meadows and John Ratcliffe.

Stefanik said in a statement that it’s an honor to be part of the team.

“I am proud to stand up for the Constitution, my constituents in New York’s 21st District, and the American people’s vote,” Stefanik said.

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Contact Mark Weiner: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 571-970-3751

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