President-elect Donald Trump made a significant announcement on Tuesday, revealing his intention to nominate former Fox News personality Kimberly Guilfoyle and his longtime billionaire friend Tom Barrack to key ambassadorial roles. These appointments mark a strategic move to bolster U.S. foreign relations through trusted figures with extensive experience in media and private equity. The announcements were made through social media posts, emphasizing the qualifications and backgrounds of both nominees.
In his post about Tom Barrack, Trump highlighted his decades-long experience in global private equity and his role as a respected voice among thought leaders in political and business circles. “For three decades, Tom successfully managed a global private equity firm,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “He is a well-respected and experienced voice of reason among a wide range of thought leaders in both political and business circles.” Barrack, who founded Colony Capital and chaired Trump’s 2017 inaugural committee, was acquitted in 2022 of charges that he acted as an unregistered foreign agent for the United Arab Emirates during the Trump administration and then made false statements to the FBI. Despite the legal challenges, Trump praised Barrack’s ability to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes and forge strong relationships with leaders in Turkey. Barrack’s experience managing global investments and understanding of financial diplomacy were seen as assets for his new role, where he will need to address issues ranging from defense cooperation to economic partnerships with the U.S.
For the ambassador to Greece role, Trump referred to Kimberly Guilfoyle as a long-time close friend and ally, someone whose background in media and public relations made her an ideal candidate to foster strong bilateral relations with Greece. “Kimberly is perfectly suited to foster strong bilateral relations with Greece, advancing our interests on issues ranging from defense cooperation to trade and economic innovation,” Trump wrote in a separate post. Guilfoyle, who is engaged to Trump’s son, Donald Trump Jr., has been a staunch supporter of his administration’s policies and goals. Her extensive experience in media, coupled with her outspoken support for Trump’s agenda, was seen as instrumental in her selection. Trump noted that Guilfoyle’s role would be critical in enhancing trade relations and economic growth between the U.S. and Greece, especially in areas like defense partnerships and fostering innovation through strategic investments. Guilfoyle, in her statement, expressed her eagerness to secure Senate confirmation and work towards strengthening the U.S.-Greece relationship. “As ambassador, I look forward to delivering on the Trump agenda, supporting our Greek allies, and ushering in a new era of peace and prosperity,” she wrote on X.
Both nominations are subject to Senate confirmation, a process that could take several months given the current political climate and the need for vetting. The selection of Guilfoyle and Barrack underscores Trump’s strategy of utilizing a network of loyal supporters and experienced professionals to represent U.S. interests abroad. This approach aligns with his broader objective of leveraging relationships from the private sector and his administration’s previous connections to maintain continuity in U.S. foreign policy. Trump’s appointments also reflect his desire to integrate trusted advisors into roles where they can influence international policy, particularly with partners in Europe and the Middle East.
In addition to the nominations of Guilfoyle and Barrack, Trump also announced the appointment of Ronald Johnson as ambassador to Mexico on the same day. Johnson, who previously served as ambassador to El Salvador from 2019 to 2021, was selected to promote U.S. security and economic interests through strong America First foreign policies. Johnson’s background as a liaison to U.S. Special Operations Command and his extensive military experience were highlighted as assets for the Mexico role. He will work closely with Trump’s Secretary of State nominee, Marco Rubio, to implement policies that focus on enhancing economic ties, security cooperation, and addressing immigration issues along the U.S.-Mexico border.
Trump’s nomination of Charles Kushner, the father of his son-in-law Jared Kushner, as ambassador to France was also recently announced. In addition, Massad Boulous was named a senior adviser on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs, reflecting Trump’s efforts to deepen U.S. relationships in the region through experienced diplomats and personal connections. These appointments underscore Trump’s strategic use of trusted advisors and family members to influence foreign policy decisions, emphasizing continuity with his previous administration’s approach. By placing his allies in key positions, Trump aims to strengthen ties with critical allies and partners, particularly in Europe and the Middle East, ensuring that his vision for U.S. international relations continues beyond his presidency.
Overall, these nominations and appointments demonstrate President-elect Trump’s commitment to maintaining a strong, unified administration that leverages personal relationships and experienced individuals to drive U.S. foreign policy forward. Through these strategic selections, Trump hopes to foster positive diplomatic relationships, facilitate economic growth, and promote peace and stability in critical regions around the world.
