Trump and Rubio Weigh Firing Guilfoyle After IG Probe Launches

Key points

• Trump told reporters on Monday that he is 'looking at' firing Guilfoyle, stating 'we are not happy.'
• The State Department’s Office of Inspector General has opened an investigation into the allegations.
• Guilfoyle’s lawyers claim the donor owed her approximately $150,000 for prior consulting and speaking work, not a quid pro quo.
• Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who visited Athens last week, has declined to comment publicly but is reportedly 'extremely pissed off' by the conduct.
• Democrats in the House and Senate foreign affairs committees have called for a formal investigation into her behavior.

Background

Guilfoyle, a former Fox News host and ex-fiancée of Donald Trump Jr., was appointed ambassador to Greece in December 2024. Her tenure has been marked by previous scrutiny, including reports of hard partying and an unidentified companion during energy diplomacy efforts in September 2026. The current controversy follows a series of reports by the Wall Street Journal detailing questionable conduct, including alleged threats to Greek officials and improper gift acceptance.

How outlets are covering it

The Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post emphasize the financial quid pro quo, citing text messages where Guilfoyle allegedly asked donor Eric Deters to pay her American Express bill. The Guardian highlights the internal administration anger, noting that Rubio was particularly frustrated after attending events with Guilfoyle in Athens despite the swirling allegations. BBC reports that Guilfoyle’s lawyers dispute the authenticity of the messages, arguing she was owed money for work already performed. While Trump and Rubio are considering dismissal, the State Department has declined to confirm the scope of the Inspector General’s investigation, with some officials noting that informal inquiries often do not lead to formal disciplinary action.

Why it matters

The potential firing of a presidential appointee highlights tensions within the administration regarding ethics and diplomatic conduct. It also underscores the growing scrutiny of Trump’s appointees, particularly those with close personal ties to the president’s family. The investigation by the Office of Inspector General could set a precedent for how the administration handles misconduct allegations among its foreign policy officials.

What to watch

Trump and Rubio are expected to make a decision on Guilfoyle’s fate this week, following the federal holiday. The Office of Inspector General may compel Guilfoyle to provide testimony as part of its investigation. Democrats in Congress are likely to continue pressing for a formal investigation, while Guilfoyle’s legal team may challenge the authenticity of the documents provided by Deters.