Kimberly Guilfoyle May Seek Pardon, Limiting Public Criticism of Trump

Former U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle is unlikely to publicly criticize President Trump or his family due to the possibility that she may require a presidential pardon related to the scandal that led to her resignation, sources familiar with the matter told The Post.

One individual close to the White House and the Trump family stated, "She’s gonna need a pardon and if she doesn’t behave she ain’t getting one." Another person close to the White House advised, "If I were her, I’d probably shut up and hope for it."

Guilfoyle, who previously dated Donald Trump Jr., was asked to resign following allegations that she solicited money for favors and accepted gifted travel from Greek businessmen. The president, distancing himself from Guilfoyle, told reporters, "She wasn’t a member of my family. She, I guess, dated my son a long time ago."

In her farewell statement, Guilfoyle denied any wrongdoing. "These allegations are false, and I intend to vigorously defend my name, my reputation, and my integrity," she wrote. "I have dedicated my professional life to fighting for justice, standing up for what is right, and defending the values that make America exceptional. I will not allow false accusations to define my decades of public service."

Trump had nominated Guilfoyle as ambassador to Greece shortly after her relationship with his son ended, a move described by one source close to the family as a "soft landing." However, her subsequent conduct reportedly crossed a line, leading to her removal from the diplomatic post.

Sources suggest that without a "soft landing" this time, Guilfoyle's best hope is clemency to mitigate potential legal penalties and the significant expenses associated with criminal investigations.

A third source, also close to the White House and familiar with Guilfoyle's record, commented on her personality, noting that while a pardon might keep her in line, her "boisterous personality" could be difficult to contain. "Kim is a well-known and world-class fabulist. She is definitely emotional… and could also just say a bunch of crazy stuff," the source said, adding, "There is a presumption she has all this dirt that honestly she doesn’t… It’s Kim, so she can make stuff up obviously, but she’s not exactly a reliable narrator."

The specifics of the controversies surrounding her diplomatic role remain unclear. While Guilfoyle's allies have offered explanations for some of her actions, such as an alleged request to businessman Eric Deters to pay off a $100,000 credit card bill in exchange for favors, Guilfoyle has stated the money was an unpaid speaking fee. The impact of this disputed payment on her legal liability is uncertain.

It is also unclear the extent to which her alleged acceptance of free luxury travel from foreign individuals intersected with her official duties or if she fulfilled reported promises to assist those who provided her with benefits.

Navigating a criminal investigation can be a burdensome process. "Whatever the case, it certainly will be looked at, which would likely be a huge process and a lot of legal fees," the second source noted, referencing Guilfoyle's awareness of the demanding nature of such investigations, which she "knows well from Jan. 6."

Guilfoyle, who is also the ex-wife of California Governor Gavin Newsom, emphasized her continued loyalty to Trump in her resignation statement. "While my time as Ambassador may be coming to an end, my commitment to President Trump, the America First movement, and the country I love will never end," she wrote, concluding with blessings for President Trump, diplomats, service members, and the United States.