White House asks Kimberly Guilfoyle to resign amid mounting scandals

The White House asked U.S. Ambassador to Greece Kimberly Guilfoyle to step down Tuesday from her diplomatic post. The request follows multiple allegations regarding personal finances and foreign travel funds during her diplomatic service. White House press secretary Katie Zacharia announced the administration made the official request.

President Donald Trump told reporters Monday that he was considering firing Guilfoyle. Trump said he was not happy with her. The decision follows recent reports detailing several ethical inquiries surrounding the envoy in Greece.

The Wall Street Journal reported last week that Guilfoyle asked Trump donor Eric Deters to pay a $100,000 credit card bill. Guilfoyle instructed Deters to send the money via wire transfer to avoid a paper trail, according to the Journal report.

The Associated Press reported Sunday that Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio were considering firing her. Over the weekend, the Journal reported senior administration officials were discussing the ambassador’s future in the post. The Journal noted a decision from Trump would arrive shortly.

The Journal also reported new allegations involving wealthy Greek businessmen. The men reportedly helped fund luxury travel for Guilfoyle. The report stated she used her role to promote their business interests in Greece.

Ambassadors serve as the highest-ranking personal representatives of the president to foreign nations. Confirmed envoys direct foreign mission staff and oversee bilateral diplomatic relations. The president holds the legal authority to recall or dismiss serving diplomatic chiefs at any time.

This situation remains a developing story. Officials have not announced who will lead the embassy mission next.