Charles Kushner to be Trump’s ambassador to France

In a statement shared on Truth Social on Saturday, Trump described Kushner as a “tremendous business leader, philanthropist, & dealmaker.” He also extended congratulations to Kushner and his family, writing, “Congratulations to Charlie, his wonderful wife Seryl, their 4 children, & 14 grandchildren. His son, Jared, worked closely with me in the White House, in particular on Operation Warp Speed, Criminal Justice Reform, & the Abraham Accords. Together, we will strengthen America’s partnership with France, our oldest Ally, & one of our greatest!”

Kushner, 70, is the founder of Kushner Companies, a prominent real estate firm. His son Jared Kushner, who is married to Trump’s daughter Ivanka, served as a senior advisor during Trump’s first administration, playing a key role in brokering the Abraham Accords and other initiatives. Jared Kushner has since stated that he does not plan to serve in Trump’s second administration and instead will focus on his private equity firm.

In 2020, Kushner was pardoned by Trump after being convicted on federal charges in 2005. Kushner pleaded guilty to 16 counts of tax evasion, one count of retaliating against a federal witness, and one count of lying to the Federal Election Commission. Kushner served two years in prison and then returned to his real estate business.

The nomination will require Senate confirmation, as is standard for all ambassadorial appointments. According to Politico, the country’s relationship with France holds particular importance in matters of trade and security as Trump is expected to make large changes regarding NATO.