Gavin Newsom Calls Ex-Wife Kimberly Guilfoyle's Ouster 'Unfortunate'

California Governor Gavin Newsom has described the departure of his ex-wife, Kimberly Guilfoyle, from her role as U.S. Ambassador to Greece as "unfortunate." Newsom, who was married to Guilfoyle from 2001 to 2005, made brief remarks while campaigning for Democrats on Monday.

When asked by a CBS News reporter about Guilfoyle's exit following an inspector general investigation, Newsom stated, "I don't know enough about it." He added, "I haven't talked to her in a while, and I just wish her the best." The Democrat then characterized the situation as "unfortunate."

Guilfoyle's resignation came after exclusive reporting by the Daily Mail detailed an inspector general's investigation into allegations of a partying lifestyle and excessive spending habits in Athens. A source close to the former ambassador told the Daily Mail that Guilfoyle did not take the news well, reportedly making excuses and calling the situation unfair.

In a statement posted on X, Guilfoyle denied the allegations, calling them "false" and vowing to "vigorously defend" her name and reputation. She expressed gratitude to President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, pledging continued support for the president and his "America First" agenda.

The State Department's probe reportedly examined complaints of "tyrannical" leadership, lavish corporate perks, potential substance abuse, use of private aircraft, improper gift acceptance, and other unethical behavior. Guilfoyle was also accused of soliciting a $100,000 donor payment toward personal credit card debt in exchange for political access.

Eric Deters, a Trump-world insider Guilfoyle reportedly asked for a six-figure payment, told the Daily Mail that Guilfoyle had asked his wife and her friend to sneak alcohol to her during a political festival, behaving like a "high schooler." He also claimed she insisted on taking leftover catered food from the event and asked him to compliment her in front of Donald Trump Jr. to regain his favor.

Guilfoyle's affinity for parties and champagne has been noted. Insiders had reportedly cautioned her to maintain good behavior after her appointment as ambassador, warning that her assignment was not an invitation for constant partying.

Guilfoyle's lawyers have disputed the allegations, asserting that the dispute with Deters concerns unpaid work rather than an attempt to sell access. They stated that Deters owes her approximately $150,000 for speaking engagements and consulting work.

Following the allegations, both Democrats and Republicans expressed concern. Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso called the reports "very troubling" and "concerning," stating that the State Department and the Senate Foreign Relations Committee would investigate. Democrats on the House and Senate foreign affairs committees also urged Secretary of State Rubio to investigate.

Guilfoyle began dating Donald Trump Jr. in 2018, and he proposed to her on New Year's Eve 2020. The relationship reportedly ended by late 2024. Donald Trump has previously dismissed their past connection, stating, "She, I guess, dated my son a long time ago."