US Senate Confirms Charles Kushner as Ambassador to France Despite Controversial Past
The US Senate has confirmed real estate developer Charles Kushner, father of President Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, to serve as ambassador to France. Despite a controversial past, Kushner vows to strengthen US-France relations.
Charles KushnerAmbassadorFranceReal EstateControversyReal EstateMay 20, 2025
Charles Kushner, the founder of Kushner Companies, a prominent real estate firm, is no stranger to controversy. In December 2020, he received a pardon from President Trump for his conviction on charges of tax evasion and making illegal campaign donations. Prosecutors alleged that Kushner hatched a scheme for revenge and intimidation, hiring a prostitute and arranging to have the encounter recorded with a hidden camera and sent to his own sister, the wife of the man who was cooperating with federal authorities.
When Trump announced his intention to nominate Charles Kushner in November, he praised Kushner as “a tremendous business leader, philanthropist, and dealmaker.” Kushner, who has since engaged in various charitable works, was sentenced in 2005 to two years in prison after pleading guilty to 18 counts, including tax evasion and witness tampering. He also agreed to pay $508,900 to the Federal Election Commission for violating contribution regulations.
At his confirmation hearing earlier this month, Kushner emphasized his dedication to improving the relationship between the US and France. He stated that he would work closely with France to “bring greater balance to our important economic relationship” and encourage France to “invest more in its defense capabilities, as well as lead the EU to align with the US vision of increased European commitments to security.”
Kushner’s nomination comes at a critical time, as the relationship between the US and Europe has been strained due to Trump’s trade policies and the ongoing Ukraine conflict. New Hampshire Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, the top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, highlighted the importance of this nomination, noting that “our European allies are anxious.” She also addressed Kushner’s criminal past, to which he responded by acknowledging his “very, very, very serious mistake” and the “heavy price” he paid for it.
Kushner’s background as a child of Holocaust survivors adds a personal dimension to his role. He shared with senators that his grandmothers and other family members were executed by Nazis, emphasizing his appreciation for the history and values shared between the US and France. He is committed to building an even stronger relationship between the two nations.
The confirmation received the support of one Democrat, New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker, who has a “special and close friendship” with Kushner. In his prepared testimony for the confirmation hearing, Kushner thanked Booker for his support and friendship.
Despite the controversy surrounding his past, Charles Kushner’s confirmation as ambassador to France signals a new chapter in his career and a renewed focus on strengthening US-France relations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Charles Kushner's background?
Charles Kushner is a real estate developer and the founder of Kushner Companies. He is also the father of President Donald Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner.
Why was Charles Kushner pardoned by Trump?
Charles Kushner was pardoned by President Trump in December 2020 for his conviction on charges of tax evasion and making illegal campaign donations.
What did Charles Kushner say about his past mistakes?
At his confirmation hearing, Charles Kushner acknowledged his 'very, very, very serious mistake' and the 'heavy price' he paid for it, referring to his criminal past.
How does Charles Kushner plan to improve US-France relations?
Kushner stated that he would work closely with France to 'bring greater balance to our important economic relationship' and encourage France to 'invest more in its defense capabilities.'
Why is this nomination considered critical?
The nomination is considered critical because it comes at a time when the relationship between the US and Europe has been strained due to Trump’s trade policies and the ongoing Ukraine conflict.
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