Elise Stefanik, the Republican Representative for New York's 21st congressional district, is increasingly being viewed as inextricably linked to the political legacy of former President Donald Trump. Recent commentary suggests that Stefanik, once considered a moderate voice within the Republican party, now carries the weight of Trump's policies, rhetoric, and controversies. This association, according to many political analysts, could have significant implications for her future political ambitions.

The shift in Stefanik's political positioning has been widely observed since her staunch defense of Trump during his first impeachment proceedings. Prior to that, she was often seen as a rising star, capable of appealing to a broader range of voters. However, her alignment with Trump's agenda, particularly her vocal support for his claims regarding the 2020 election, has solidified her position within the pro-Trump wing of the Republican party, while simultaneously alienating more moderate Republicans and independent voters.

This close association has both advantages and disadvantages. On one hand, it has garnered her considerable support from Trump's base, a powerful and influential voting bloc within the Republican party. This support has been instrumental in her rise to leadership positions within the House Republican Conference. On the other hand, it has made her a target for Democrats and critics who view Trump's policies and rhetoric as divisive and harmful.

The phrase "comes with all Trump's baggage" implies that Stefanik is now perceived as inheriting the negative aspects associated with the former president. This could include concerns about his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, his stance on immigration, and his overall temperament. Whether Stefanik can successfully navigate this political landscape and maintain her relevance in a post-Trump era remains to be seen. Her future success will likely depend on her ability to balance her loyalty to Trump's base with the need to appeal to a broader electorate, a challenge that many Republicans are currently facing. The coming election cycles will undoubtedly serve as a testing ground for Stefanik's political strategy and her ability to either embrace or shed the perceived "baggage" associated with her close ties to the former president.