Politico is reporting that Heather Nauert, the State Department spokeswoman, is no longer under consideration to replace Nikki Haley as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. While I deeply respect the relevant Politico reporters (Gabby Orr is one of the finest reporters in the nation), I am hearing differently.

One senior administration official tells me that Nauert is both still in the running and retains support from Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. Pompeo’s influence in the administration remains significant and was a driving force behind the president’s decision to nominate Gina Haspel to lead the CIA. Moreover, President Trump has already shown public favor for Nauert, who is known as an administration loyalist. (I have previously written in favor of Nauert’s candidacy, but this has nothing to do with my preference.)