Senate Confirms Charles Kushner as France Ambassador/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ The Senate confirmed Charles Kushner, father of Trump’s son-in-law, as U.S. ambassador to France. Kushner, previously pardoned for federal crimes, faced scrutiny over his past. His appointment comes amid tense U.S.-Europe relations.
Kushner Ambassador Confirmation Quick Looks
- Charles Kushner confirmed 51-45 as U.S. ambassador to France.
- He is the father of Jared Kushner and father-in-law to Ivanka Trump.
- Kushner was convicted in 2005 for tax evasion and witness tampering.
- Trump pardoned Kushner in 2020, citing his charitable record.
- Kushner vowed to strengthen U.S.-France ties and support NATO defense goals.
- Democrats raised concerns about his criminal past during the confirmation hearing.
- Sen. Cory Booker was the only Democrat to vote in favor.
- Kushner called his past crimes a “very serious mistake.”
- Critics say the appointment reflects Trump’s loyalty-based diplomacy.
- Kushner promised to align EU security policies with U.S. priorities.
Deep Look: Charles Kushner Confirmed as Ambassador to France Despite Criminal Past and Political Controversy
WASHINGTON, May 19, 2025 — In a controversial and closely watched vote, the U.S. Senate on Monday confirmed Charles Kushner, a New Jersey real estate mogul and the father of Jared Kushner, as the next ambassador to France. The decision passed by a narrow 51-45 margin, with most votes falling along party lines.
Charles Kushner, who was pardoned by former President Donald Trump in 2020, will now represent the United States in one of its most historically significant diplomatic posts—despite a criminal past that once made national headlines.
A Convicted Felon Turned Diplomat
Kushner’s history includes a 2005 conviction for tax evasion, witness tampering, and illegal campaign contributions. His case drew national attention for its salacious details: prosecutors alleged he hired a sex worker to entrap his brother-in-law, then sent a secretly recorded video to his own sister as retaliation for cooperating with authorities.
Kushner served two years in federal prison and paid over $500,000 in fines to the Federal Election Commission for violating campaign finance rules.
Despite that past, President Trump called Kushner a “tremendous business leader, philanthropist, & dealmaker” when nominating him in November 2024. Trump’s 2020 pardon emphasized Kushner’s post-prison charitable work, declaring that his “record of reform and charity” outweighed his convictions.
A High-Profile Nomination in a Fragile Global Moment
Kushner steps into the role amid strained U.S.–European relations, especially with France, due to Trump’s trade stances and the ongoing Ukraine war. At his confirmation hearing, Kushner told senators he would work to “bring greater balance” to U.S.–France economic ties, and push for stronger European defense investments.
“I understand the weight of this moment,” Kushner said, adding that he is committed to helping France “align more closely with U.S. security goals within NATO and the EU.”
He also shared personal reflections on his family’s Holocaust history. “I am a child of survivors. My grandmothers were executed by Nazis. This mission is personal,” he told lawmakers.
Pushback from Democrats, Praise from Booker
Democrats were vocal in their opposition, questioning Kushner’s fitness for the job due to his criminal past. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) pressed Kushner on the scandal that led to his conviction.
Kushner admitted to making a “very, very, very serious mistake” and said he had paid “a heavy price.”
Despite the criticism, Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) broke with his party to support Kushner’s confirmation. “We share a close and personal friendship,” Kushner said during his testimony, thanking Booker for his support.
Political Loyalty or Diplomatic Strategy?
Kushner’s appointment continues a trend seen throughout Trump’s presidency: rewarding personal allies and loyalists with high-profile roles. Critics argue that the choice reflects favoritism rather than merit, while supporters say Kushner’s business acumen and personal redemption justify the post.
The Department of State has not yet indicated when Kushner will officially take up his post in Paris, but his arrival will come at a time of deep diplomatic challenges, including tensions over European defense funding, trade negotiations, and France’s role in the Middle East and Africa.
You must Register or Login to post a comment.