GOP Rep. Elise Stefanik of Upstate New York Slams NPR Affiliate, Accuses ‘Election Interference,’ and Vows to Defund ‘Misinformation Machine’ After False Voting Claim Sparks Outrage

Stefanik Criticizes NPR Affiliate Over Voting Misinformation, Threatens Funding Cuts

Accusations of Election Interference

In a heated social media response, Rep. Elise Stefanik of Upstate New York criticized North Country Public Radio (NCPR) for an inaccurate report regarding her early voting activities, accusing the NPR affiliate of engaging in “election interference.” The controversy arose after an NCPR reporter tweeted that Stefanik had cast her ballot in Saratoga County’s 20th Congressional District while she is running to retain her seat in the 21st District. Stefanik argued that the tweet misrepresented the voting process, potentially confusing voters and undermining confidence in early voting.

Redistricting and Voting Eligibility Clarified

Stefanik, a Saratoga resident, clarified that although the polling station is within the 20th District, voters from across Saratoga County, including the 21st District, can vote there. Due to recent redistricting changes, the 20th District polling location overlaps with areas where 21st District voters can cast early ballots. She emphasized that under New York’s rules, any early voting location within a voter’s county is accessible regardless of district boundaries. Furthermore, House representatives are not required to live within the district they represent, reinforcing her eligibility as a candidate.

Stefanik’s Stance on NPR Funding

Following the incident, Stefanik pledged to defund NPR, accusing it of vote suppression and misinformation. This threat comes amid a broader GOP push to reduce or eliminate federal funding for NPR, which some Republicans argue leans toward liberal narratives. This tension between Republican lawmakers and NPR affiliates highlights political contention as Stefanik campaigns for a sixth term against Democrat Paul Collins in the 21st District, while Democrat Rep. Paul Tonko faces Republican Kevin Waltz in the 20th District.

Retraction and Apology Issued by Reporter

Following the backlash, NCPR reporter Emily Russell took responsibility, retracting the erroneous tweet and issuing an apology. Stefanik’s team reiterated that the incident caused confusion among voters in her district, underscoring the importance of accurate reporting during election season.