The U.S. Department of State Office of Inspector General is considering an inquiry into U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle following multiple reports of alleged ethics violations. The potential investigation comes amid growing scrutiny of her conduct in office, including claims that she sought financial assistance from a Trump donor and allowed a lobbyist to attend private diplomatic meetings.
Key Developments
- Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY) stated on Face the Nation that he expects an inquiry into Guilfoyle’s conduct, including possible action by the State Department’s Office of Inspector General. Barrasso’s remarks follow the release of three Wall Street Journal reports detailing allegations against Guilfoyle.
- President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are reportedly considering her removal, according to a senior U.S. official cited by The Associated Press. A decision on her future could come this week, following the Columbus Day holiday.
Allegations and Responses
The Wall Street Journal reports allege that Guilfoyle asked Trump donor Eric Deters to pay off a $100,000 American Express bill shortly before her Senate confirmation hearing. In messages reviewed by the Journal, Guilfoyle reportedly urged Deters to wire the money directly to American Express, stating the transaction would not leave a paper trail. Deters has stated he never made the payment. Guilfoyle’s attorney, Jesse Binnall, disputed the authenticity of the messages.
Additional allegations include claims that Guilfoyle promoted the interests of Greek construction and energy company Aktor Group and allowed its registered lobbyist, Christos Marafatsos, to accompany her to private diplomatic meetings with senior officials. The Journal previously reported on these interactions.
Official Reactions
A senior U.S. official told The Associated Press that Trump and Rubio are "extremely pissed off" by the reported conduct and are weighing her removal. The official added that a decision on her future is likely to be made this week. No departure has been confirmed.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Guilfoyle’s attorney has denied the allegations, calling the messages in question inauthentic. The State Department has not yet confirmed whether an investigation will proceed. The Office of Inspector General typically reviews allegations of misconduct involving U.S. diplomats, though no formal inquiry has been announced.
Background on Kimberly Guilfoyle
Kimberly Guilfoyle has served as the U.S. Ambassador to Greece since her confirmation in 2025. Prior to her diplomatic role, she was a prominent figure in conservative media and the former fiancée of Donald Trump Jr. Her tenure in Athens has been marked by allegations of ethical lapses, which have intensified in recent weeks.