(I was trying to understand the longitudinal stability of aircraft and how it is related to elevator)

If I pull the stick back by, say 2 inches, will it have the same affect as trimming the horizontal stabilizer to make the aircraft fly at that angle of attack?

I mean, does setting the elevator at constant 2 degree will make the aircraft swing its nose up as long as the stick is held or does it trim itself to the new angle of attack and ride steadily in its new position?