On Tuesday, President-elect Donald Trump revealed his decision to nominate Kimberly Guilfoyle as the U.S. ambassador to Greece. Additionally, billionaire Tilman Fertitta, owner of the NBA’s Houston Rockets, is reported to be Trump’s choice for the ambassadorial position in Italy, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Guilfoyle, who previously worked as a host on Fox News and has since transitioned to political fundraising, has a personal connection to the Trump family, as she is dating Donald Trump Jr., the President’s eldest son. In a statement, Trump praised Guilfoyle for her long-standing friendship, asserting that her leadership skills and background in law, media, and politics make her highly qualified for the position.
“It is an honor to accept this nomination to serve as the next Ambassador to Greece, and I am committed to earning the support of the U.S. Senate,” Guilfoyle stated via social media after the announcement. She expressed her eagerness to support Greek allies and further the Trump administration’s agenda, focusing on establishing a new era of peace and prosperity.
With a legal background as a former prosecutor in California, Guilfoyle has also made her mark in television, and she was present on election night alongside the Trump family. She actively campaigned for Trump and addressed attendees at the Republican convention, emphasizing a vision of American strength and commitment to protecting U.S. service members abroad.
In addition to Guilfoyle’s nomination, Fertitta’s anticipated selection as ambassador to Italy is notable. A well-known Republican donor and business leader, Fertitta’s enterprise, Landry’s Inc., oversees a diverse range of hospitality venues, including hotels and renowned restaurant brands. His connections to Trump, including a collaborative appearance during a SpaceX rocket launch, illustrate the close ties between the nominee and the administration.
These ambassadorial picks underscore Trump’s tendency to appoint individuals with personal and familial connections to key positions, continuing the approach he embraced during his first term.
Overall, Guilfoyle’s candidacy presents an opportunity for strengthened U.S.-Greece relations, while Fertitta’s expected role could enhance diplomatic and commercial endeavors between the U.S. and Italy. There is a sense of optimism surrounding these nominations, particularly for enhancing dialogue between these nations during a pivotal time in international relations.