Charles Kushner, pardoned by Trump in 2020, confirmed as U.S. ambassador to France and Monaco in a 51–45 Senate vote.

Senate Confirms Real Estate Developer for Key Post

Charles Kushner, a New Jersey real estate mogul and father-in-law to Ivanka Trump, was confirmed Monday by the U.S. Senate as the next American ambassador to France and Monaco. The vote passed narrowly, 51–45, formalizing the appointment of a controversial nominee whose past legal troubles drew national attention.

Kushner, 71, was previously pardoned by President Donald Trump for federal tax evasion and violations of election laws, stemming from charges filed in 2005. His confirmation adds another chapter to his decades-long career in business and philanthropy, as well as his familial proximity to one of America’s most prominent political families.

The founder of Kushner Companies, Charles Kushner has long supported Jewish institutions and causes, including Yeshiva University in Manhattan and St. Barnabas Hospital in New Jersey, where a wing bears the family name. He has also served on multiple institutional boards, including the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and was appointed to the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council.

Kushner Says Legal Past Prepared Him for Role

During his confirmation hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on May 1, Kushner directly addressed his criminal history. “I think that my past mistakes actually make me… better in my values to really make me more qualified to do this job,” he told lawmakers, framing his experiences as a source of personal and professional growth.

His nomination was first announced in November, with President Trump describing Kushner as a “tremendous business leader, philanthropist, & dealmaker,” and praising his long record of public service. “He will be a strong advocate representing our country & its interests,” Trump stated. The president also highlighted Kushner’s prior recognition as New Jersey Entrepreneur of the Year by Ernst & Young and his involvement in major public and educational institutions such as NYU.

In a celebratory message following the confirmation, Trump extended congratulations to Kushner’s wife, Seryl, their four children, and fourteen grandchildren. He noted that Kushner’s son, Jared Kushner, played a central role in several of the administration’s landmark initiatives, including Operation Warp Speed, Criminal Justice Reform, and the Abraham Accords.

Charles Kushner’s appointment marks a continuation of Trump’s efforts to place trusted allies and associates in influential foreign policy roles. His new position will require navigating U.S. interests in France and Monaco—two countries with long-standing diplomatic ties to Washington. The appointment underscores Trump’s ongoing efforts to reinforce diplomatic leadership through figures known for loyalty and personal connection to his administration.