An ongoing feud between Melissa DeRosa and Rep. Elise Stefanik, two former friends from Albany, has once again taken center stage due to a bizarre incident involving DeRosa’s recent tell-all book. The clash between the former pals, which began during the COVID-19 pandemic, has escalated further over an alleged incident at a local bookstore. This article delves into the details of their relationship, the incident that reignited their feud, and the responses from both sides.
Melissa DeRosa and Rep. Elise Stefanik first crossed paths in 1995 when they were students at the prestigious Albany Academy for Girls, the oldest all-girls prep day school in the country. Despite their political differences, the two formed an unlikely friendship. They even joined forces to run for student council, setting the stage for their future political aspirations.
Political Differences and Personal Betrayals
After attending Ivy League schools and eventually finding themselves in Washington, DC, DeRosa and Stefanik maintained their friendship despite their political differences. However, their bond was shattered during the COVID-19 pandemic when Stefanik publicly criticized DeRosa’s boss, Governor Andrew Cuomo, for his handling of the crisis. In response, DeRosa privately accused Stefanik of being a partisan hack during a phone call, which marked the end of their communication.
DeRosa’s recently published book, titled “What’s Left Unsaid,” recounts her relationship with Stefanik and sheds light on their falling out. The book also claims that Stefanik harbored jealousy towards Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and successfully became “the AOC of the right.” However, it is important to note that Stefanik has not commented on these particular recollections.
The Incident at the Bookstore
The latest episode in the ongoing feud involves an alleged incident at a local independent bookstore in Albany. According to a source, Stefanik’s mother visited the bookstore and expressed her displeasure regarding the promotion of DeRosa’s book. The source likened the incident to a middle schooler’s parent bursting into the principal’s office, highlighting the unprofessionalism of the situation.
Alex DeGrasse, a senior adviser for Stefanik, refuted the claims of the alleged incident, dismissing them as false. DeGrasse explained that Stefanik’s mother purchased children’s books for her grandson but was urged by a store clerk to buy a signed copy of DeRosa’s book due to their shared last name. Stefanik’s mother declined the offer, highlighting her lack of support for Cuomo. DeGrasse also alleged that DeRosa attempted to boost sales by purchasing her own book on Black Friday, a claim that DeRosa’s spokesperson dismissed.
The strained relationship between DeRosa and Stefanik has taken its toll on both individuals. DeRosa has reportedly described the deterioration of their friendship as tragic, while Stefanik’s camp has labeled DeRosa a failed author akin to her disgraced former boss, Cuomo. Despite the public animosity, DeRosa’s book has been praised at book launch events attended by well-known celebrities and industry professionals.
The flames of the ongoing feud between DeRosa and Stefanik show no signs of extinguishing. DeRosa has even hinted at the possibility of a future political run, which could further fan the flames. With each party holding steadfast in their positions and public declarations, it remains uncertain whether reconciliation is possible in the future.
The complex and tumultuous feud between Melissa DeRosa and Rep. Elise Stefanik showcases the breakdown of a once-close bond due to political differences and personal betrayal. The recent incident at a local bookstore has only added fuel to the fire, reigniting the feud between the two Albany figures. As the public awaits further developments, it remains to be seen whether this feud can ever be resolved or if it will continue to simmer indefinitely.