Kimberly Guilfoyle has been nominated by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump to serve as the ambassador to Greece, stirring significant interest and speculation about both her new role and her personal life. Guilfoyle, 55, who previously hosted on Fox News and has been one of Trump’s steadfast supporters, is engaged to Donald Trump Jr., the president’s eldest son. This nomination coincided with recent reports of Trump Jr. being seen with another woman, adding layers of complexity to their relationship.
The announcement came on December 10, 2024, via Trump’s social media platform Truth Social where he proclaimed, "Her extensive experience and leadership in law, media, and politics along with her sharp intellect make her supremely qualified to represent the United States, and safeguard its interests abroad." Trump expressed confidence in Guilfoyle’s ability to cultivate strong bilateral relations with Greece, emphasizing her qualifications to deal with issues ranging from defense to economic innovation.
Despite this positive reception from Trump, Guilfoyle’s nomination has raised eyebrows due to her comments made during a Fox News broadcast back in 2015, where she labeled the Greek people as "freeloaders" during the height of Greece’s financial crisis. At the time, she criticized the country’s response to austerity measures, stating, "Get up in the morning. Go to work. You guys are retiring too early and that's part of the problem." This harsh criticism did not go unnoticed, with Greek government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis recently remarking on the difference between Greece 2015—where many faced economic struggle—and Greece 2025, which he described as developing and thriving.
Marinakis said, "She will come to Greece of 2025 and not to Greece of 2015," highlighting the nation’s recovery and growth since undergoing severe economic reforms. He asserted, "Greece is no longer the black sheep of Europe and the entire world." This shows the tension between Guilfoyle’s past perceptions and the contemporary reality of Greece.
Guilfoyle’s romantic ties to the Trump family have also been under scrutiny. She began her relationship with Donald Trump Jr. after his divorce from first wife Vanessa Trump, with whom he shares five children. Since their romance blossomed, Guilfoyle has held various key positions within the Trump campaign, including serving as the national chair of the Trump Victory Finance Committee during the 2020 election.
Theirs was remembered as a passionate connection, with Guilfoyle once stating, "Just simply, Don and I are a perfect match. We are similar in many ways and beautifully complement one another." Yet, recent developments have sparked rumors surrounding the stability of their engagement, especially after Trump Jr. was photographed holding hands with Florida socialite Bettina Anderson during what appeared to be affectionate outings.
While early reports suggested their relationship was on solid ground, the recent allegations of them spending time apart have raised questions. A source even hinted at Trump Jr.’s independent lifestyle leading him to see Anderson quietly. Indeed, those close to the situation have suggested the role of the nomination might also be aimed at granting her some political capital amid personal uncertainty.
Critics of Trump’s ambassadorial selections, including Senate Democrats, have lambasted decisions such as this one, calling it evidence of favoring allies over qualified candidates. New Senator Adam Schiff expressed concern over Guilfoyle’s background, stating, "Apart from being part of the family, I don't know what relevant background she has, but I will obviously be looking too closely at her credentials." The dialogue around her nomination points to broader partisan divides on Trump’s approach to filling diplomatic positions.
This ambassadorship nomination highlights the intertwined nature of personal and professional dynamics within Trump’s administration. Under investigation are not just the credentials of those nominated but also the circumstances surrounding their appointments—such as personal relations and past comments. Guilfoyle’s future as ambassador to Greece will likely face intense scrutiny, both politically and press-wise, as she ventures to mend her relationship with the Greek state and establish her role on the international stage.
Notably, Guilfoyle's consistent support for Trump at campaign events and the RNC only solidifies her stance as more than just another political appointee. It reflects the broader narrative of loyalty permeated within Trump’s circle, where personal loyalty intertwines significantly with political appointments.
The true test will come with Senate confirmation, where Guilfoyle’s political ties and prior statements will inevitably come under the microscope. Trump’s administration aims to push through appointments with Republican support, highlighting, again, how familial and personal connections play out within the corridors of U.S. power.
