Guilfoyle Faces Potential Senate Probe Over Influence Peddling Allegations
A top Senate Republican indicated an investigation is likely following a report that U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle allegedly solicited a Trump donor to pay off personal debt.
U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle may become the subject of a Senate investigation amid allegations of influence peddling, according to a top Senate Republican.
Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso, R-Wyo., stated on CBS News’ "Face the Nation" that the reports concerning Guilfoyle are "very troubling" and "concerning." He anticipates that "an investigation may soon follow."
Barrasso suggested that the State Department would likely conduct an initial probe, with the Senate Foreign Relations Committee also exercising oversight. "I think the public has a right to know what was found, and it is quite a bit of concern," he added.
The allegations stem from a Wall Street Journal report detailing how Guilfoyle, before her confirmation as ambassador, allegedly urged a major donor to President Donald Trump to clear $100,000 in personal credit card debt. The donor, Eric Deters, told the publication that he did not make the payment and that Guilfoyle had urged him to avoid leaving a paper trail while offering him access to top administration officials.
This is not the first inquiry into Guilfoyle's conduct. The State Department’s Office of Inspector General has already opened an investigation into previous alleged misconduct. Previous reports have also surfaced concerning Guilfoyle's luxury lifestyle in Greece, accusations of mistreatment of staff, substance abuse, ties to an energy and construction company, and the improper acceptance of gifts.
In the wake of the latest allegations, The Associated Press reported, citing a senior U.S. official, that President Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are reportedly "extremely pissed off" by Guilfoyle’s alleged actions and are considering her removal.
Secretary of State Rubio, in response to the initial report, cautioned against accepting allegations as fact, stating, "It’s not the gospel for me. That’s not the way we do things."
Guilfoyle, previously engaged to Donald Trump Jr., was confirmed by the Senate for her diplomatic post in Athens last year.