U.S. President-elect Donald Trump announced two significant ambassadorial appointments on Tuesday. Kimberly Guilfoyle, a former Fox News host turned political fundraiser, has been nominated as the next U.S. ambassador to Greece. Additionally, Tom Barrack, chair of Trump’s 2016 inaugural committee, is set to serve as ambassador to Turkey.
Guilfoyle, engaged to Donald Trump Jr. since December 31, 2020, received high praise from Trump. “For many years, Kimberly has been a close friend and ally,” he wrote on the Truth Social platform. He emphasized her suitability for the role, stating that she is “perfectly suited to foster strong bilateral relations with Greece, advancing our interests on issues ranging from defense cooperation to trade and economic innovation.”
The appointment continues a trend of naming individuals with family ties to high-profile diplomatic roles. In November, Trump revealed plans to nominate Charles Kushner, father-in-law of his daughter Ivanka Trump, as ambassador to France. He also announced that Massad Boulos, Tiffany Trump’s father-in-law, would become a senior adviser on Arab and Middle East issues.
Trump’s nominee for Turkey, Tom Barrack, is a longtime friend and private equity executive. Barrack was previously acquitted in 2022 of charges related to allegedly acting as an agent for the United Arab Emirates. Trump referred to Barrack as a “well-respected and experienced voice of reason” in his announcement.
These appointments reflect Trump’s preference for placing trusted allies in critical diplomatic roles, signaling a continuation of his distinctive approach to political appointments.