Our only question: What took so long?
Kimberly Guilfoyle has been asked to resign as U.S. ambassador to Greece following a series of explosive reports alleging misconduct, including a request for a $100,000 credit card payment from a prominent Republican donor.
The White House confirmed the decision Tuesday, October 13, after days of mounting controversy surrounding the former Fox News host and longtime ally of President Donald Trump.
“We have asked Ambassador Guilfoyle to resign,” White House press secretary Katie Zacharia announced during her first press briefing. She added that Guilfoyle had been a “wonderful asset to the team” and wished her well.
The move follows reports by The Wall Street Journal detailing allegations that Guilfoyle asked Republican donor Eric Deters to pay a $100,000 American Express bill shortly before her Senate confirmation hearing. According to the reporting, Guilfoyle allegedly suggested the payment would not appear in public disclosures and offered access to administration officials in return.
Guilfoyle’s legal team has denied wrongdoing, arguing that the disputed payment request concerned outstanding fees for earlier public appearances and speaking engagements. Her lawyers have also challenged the authenticity of the reported messages and rejected allegations involving private travel.
The controversy extends beyond the reported financial request. Additional reports have raised questions about alleged improper gifts and services, her interactions with Greek officials, and whether private business interests received favorable treatment through her diplomatic position.
The allegations reportedly prompted concern within the Trump administration. On Monday, Trump acknowledged that officials were reviewing the situation, telling reporters, “We’re not happy,” when asked whether he was considering removing Guilfoyle from her post.
Guilfoyle has forcefully rejected the accusations, insisting she intends to defend her reputation. In a statement posted on social media, she said the allegations were false and vowed to protect her name, integrity and record of public service.
The State Department’s inspector general has reportedly been looking into the allegations, although the precise status and scope of any formal investigation remain unclear. Democratic lawmakers have also called for further scrutiny.
Guilfoyle, a former California prosecutor and television personality, became a prominent figure in Republican political circles through her relationship with Donald Trump Jr., to whom she was previously engaged. Her appointment as ambassador to Greece marked a significant transition from media and political campaigning to diplomatic service.
Her departure now raises questions about the administration’s vetting process for high-profile political appointments and the standards expected of U.S. representatives overseas.
Even some top Republicans, tired of complaints about her, are expected to ask the State Department to conduct an investigation into the ambassador, before noting that ‘the Senate Foreign Relations Committee will have oversight and look into that as well.’