WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)– From the start of her confirmation hearing, Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) pledged to deliver a message to the rest of the world if she becomes the next U.N. ambassador.

“I stand ready to implement President Trump’s mandate from the American people to deliver America First peace through strength, national security, leadership on the world stage,” Stefanik said.

Stefanik pointed to the hostage situation in the Middle East and national security challenges from China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea as reasons for the U.S. to take a leadership role.

“It has never been more critical for the United States to lead with strength and moral clarity,” she said.

Sen. Dave McCormick (R-Pa.) urged Stefanik to combat anti-Israel sentiments at the U.N.

“I’m deeply troubled by the virulent anti-Semitism and anti-Israel bias at the United Nations,” McCormick said.

Many Democrats acknowledged Stefanik’s qualifications, but voiced concerns about her priorities.

“Credibility comes with calling out anti-Semitic behavior when it comes from both the right and the left,” said Sen. Chris Murphy, (D-Conn.) said.

Murphy called on Stefanik to treat anti-Semitism the same regardless of political affiliation and referenced Elon Musk’s actions after the inauguration.

“What do you think of Elon Musk, perhaps the president’s most visible adviser, doing two Heil Hitler salutes last night at the president’s televised rally?” Murphy asked.

“No, Elon Musk did not do those salutes. I was not at the rally,” Stefanik responded.

Stefanik faces an uphill battle, with only one Democratic senator publicly supporting her confirmation.