Gavin Newsom Comments on Ex-Wife Kimberly Guilfoyle's Ouster as Greek Ambassador

California Governor Gavin Newsom has publicly addressed the recent ouster of his ex-wife, Kimberly Guilfoyle, as the U.S. Ambassador to Greece. Newsom, who was married to Guilfoyle from 2001 to 2005, stated that he had not spoken to her in a while but wished her well, describing the situation as "unfortunate."

Guilfoyle, 57, resigned following reports from the Daily Mail detailing an Inspector General investigation into her alleged excessive spending and partying lifestyle in Athens. A source close to Guilfoyle told the Daily Mail that she did not take the news well, reportedly making excuses and calling the situation unfair.

In a statement posted to X, Guilfoyle denied the allegations, calling them "false" and vowing to "vigorously defend" her name and reputation. She pledged her continued commitment to former President Donald Trump and the "America First movement."

The State Department's probe reportedly stemmed from complaints regarding Guilfoyle's leadership and the acceptance of lavish corporate perks at the U.S. Embassy in Athens. Allegations included potential substance abuse, use of private aircraft, close ties with an energy and construction company, and improper gift acceptance. Guilfoyle also faced accusations of soliciting a $100,000 donor payment to cover personal credit card debt in exchange for political access.

An insider, Eric Deters, told the Daily Mail that Guilfoyle had asked him for a six-figure payment and that she had enlisted Deters' wife and her friend to covertly bring her alcohol during a political festival. Deters also claimed Guilfoyle insisted on taking leftover VIP catering food home from the event and asked him to compliment her to Donald Trump Jr., her former fiancé, in an effort to regain his favor.

Guilfoyle's penchant for champagne and parties had been previously noted, with insiders urging her to maintain professional conduct after her appointment as Ambassador to Greece.

However, Guilfoyle's legal team has pushed back against the allegations, asserting that the dispute with Deters involves unpaid work rather than an attempt to sell access. Her lawyers stated that Deters owes her approximately $150,000 for speaking engagements and consulting work.

The reports prompted reactions from lawmakers. Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso called the reports "very troubling" and "concerning," expecting the State Department and the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to investigate. Democrats on House and Senate foreign affairs committees also called for an investigation, with Representative Gregory Meeks stating that if the reports are accurate, Guilfoyle would be "unfit to represent the United States abroad."

Guilfoyle began dating Donald Trump Jr. in 2018, and he proposed on New Year's Eve 2020. The relationship ended by late 2024. Donald Trump has publicly distanced himself from Guilfoyle, stating she "I guess, dated my son a long time ago."