Kimberly Guilfoyle Asked to Step Down from Ambassador Role

Kimberly Guilfoyle, the United States ambassador to Greece and a Trump appointee, has been requested to resign following growing allegations of improper and potentially illegal conduct. The announcement was made Tuesday by White House press secretary Katie Zacharia. The claims, which refer to behavior both before and during Guilfoyle's tenure in Athens, have drawn criticism and calls for further investigation.

Allegations of Improper Conduct Emerge

Since late September, multiple reports have surfaced detailing alleged misconduct by Guilfoyle as U.S. ambassador to Greece. The Wall Street Journal published a series of stories suggesting questionable behavior, including an alleged threat to a host country official, the acceptance of improper gifts and services, and offering access to administration officials in exchange for help paying a large credit card bill. Additional allegations include promoting the business interests of a Greek construction and energy company and allowing its lobbyist access to private diplomatic meetings.

Reactions from Trump Administration and Lawmakers

President Donald Trump expressed dissatisfaction with the reports regarding Guilfoyle’s conduct. When asked by reporters about the possibility of terminating her appointment, Trump responded, “We’re not happy.” These remarks followed weekend previews to The Associated Press and reflected the administration’s mounting concern over the situation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, asked about the issue during his time in Athens, initially defended Guilfoyle, calling her a "strong ambassador." However, Rubio has since declined further public comment on the escalating allegations, and at one point criticized journalists’ reliance on anonymous sources.

State Department Investigation and Congressional Calls for Oversight

A second U.S. official indicated that the State Department's inspector general is looking into the allegations surrounding Guilfoyle’s conduct. While it has not been confirmed whether this inquiry has become a formal investigation, such processes can range from informal reviews to comprehensive probes that may result in disciplinary action, including dismissal. The State Department has not commented publicly on the matter. Congressional leaders including Rep. Gregory Meeks, Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, and Rep. Robert Garcia have called for a democratic investigation into the allegations.

Guilfoyle's Response and Legal Representation

Guilfoyle herself has not directly addressed the latest reports. However, her lawyers, David Schwartz and Jesse Binnall, released a statement denying any wrongdoing. They stated that the payment referenced in the credit card allegation was for public appearances and speaking engagements predating her diplomatic nomination, which they claim had not yet been compensated. The attorneys also stated that all travel on private planes was conducted in accordance with State Department guidance and regulations.

Background and Further Allegations

Kimberly Guilfoyle is a former Fox News host and served as a California prosecutor. She was previously married to California governor Gavin Newsom and later became engaged to Donald Trump Jr. In addition to the Journal’s reporting, the British tabloid The Daily Mail alleged she had alienated U.S. Embassy staff in Athens and acted in ways deemed inappropriate for a diplomatic post. The u s embassy athens remains under scrutiny as more facts emerge regarding the claims of improper conduct and diplomatic misconduct during her ambassadorship.

Source: abc13.com.