The US Senate on Monday confirmed real estate magnate Charles Kushner as the next American ambassador to France, despite his previous felony convictions, which were erased through a presidential pardon in 2020.
Kushner, the father of Jared Kushner—former senior adviser and son-in-law to President Donald Trump—was confirmed by a 51-45 vote.
Notably, Democratic Senator Cory Booker of Kushner’s home state of New Jersey voted in favour, while Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska opposed the nomination.
Kushner pleaded guilty in 2005 to 18 counts, including tax evasion, making false statements to the Federal Election Commission, and witness retaliation.
He served two years in prison.
🚨🇺🇸 🇫🇷 SENATE CONFIRMS CHARLES KUSHNER AS U.S. AMBASSADOR TO FRANCE
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) May 20, 2025
The Senate confirmed Charles Kushner, father of Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, as ambassador to France in a 51–45 vote.
Kushner’s appointment comes despite his 2005 conviction for tax evasion, witness… https://t.co/GJfNJ63PPj pic.twitter.com/dyfG2zDSga
Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, who prosecuted the case, previously described it as “one of the most loathsome, disgusting crimes” of his tenure.
President Trump nominated Kushner following his 2024 re-election, calling him a “tremendous business leader, philanthropist and dealmaker.”
At his confirmation hearing, Kushner acknowledged his criminal past, stating: “I made a very, very, very serious mistake, and I paid a very heavy price for that mistake.”
Critics, including Senator Patty Murray, voiced concern over the appointment, citing Kushner’s criminal history. “Of course, I voted NO,” Murray posted on X ahead of the vote.
Kushner will also serve as ambassador to Monaco.
His confirmation marks the 10th ambassadorial appointment approved by the Senate in recent weeks.
The Trump administration has appointed several family members and allies to key roles.
Massad Boulos, Tiffany Trump’s father-in-law, currently serves as senior adviser on Arab and Middle Eastern affairs, while Kimberly Guilfoyle, formerly linked to Donald Trump Jr., has been nominated as ambassador to Greece.
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