Trump-pardoned mogul Charles Kushner to be reviewed by Senate for ambassador to France and Monaco

Charles Kushner’s Nomination Moves to Senate

Charles Kushner, a prominent New Jersey real estate developer and longtime philanthropist, is being considered by the U.S. Senate for the ambassadorship to France and Monaco. The 71-year-old nominee, who received a presidential pardon from President Donald Trump in 2020, is scheduled to appear before the Senate on Monday.

Kushner, the father of Jared Kushner and father-in-law to Ivanka Trump, was convicted in 2005 of federal tax evasion and campaign finance violations. During his May 1 confirmation hearing, Kushner acknowledged his past legal troubles, stating they have given him improved judgment and a more reflective approach to public service.

“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 the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. He emphasized the lessons he has drawn from his experiences, arguing that they would enable him to better represent the United States abroad.

Kushner founded Kushner Companies in 1985 and has been deeply involved in philanthropic work, particularly in support of Jewish institutions. He has made significant donations to organizations such as Yeshiva University in New York and St. Barnabas Hospital in New Jersey, where a medical wing bears his family name.

Endorsement from Trump and Public Profile

President Trump nominated Kushner for the diplomatic post in November, describing him as a “tremendous business leader, philanthropist, and dealmaker.” In a public endorsement, Trump cited Kushner’s previous appointments, including his roles on the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council and the board of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.

“Congratulations to Charlie, his wonderful wife Seryl, their 4 children, and 14 grandchildren,” Trump said. He also acknowledged the contributions of Kushner’s son Jared, who served as a senior advisor in the Trump administration, particularly on major initiatives like Operation Warp Speed, the Abraham Accords, and criminal justice reform.

Trump expressed confidence that Kushner would strengthen U.S. diplomatic ties with France, stating the nominee would be a strong advocate for American interests with “our oldest ally and one of our greatest.”

If confirmed, Kushner will assume a role that plays a key part in U.S. engagement with the European Union and NATO partners, amid ongoing efforts to reinforce transatlantic relations. The appointment would also continue the trend of high-profile Trump allies occupying significant diplomatic positions during Trump’s current term.