Watchdog examines Guilfoyle and U.S. embassy in Greece over alleged payment request
The State Department’s inspector general is investigating Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle and the U.S. Embassy in Greece, according to people familiar with the matter. A longtime Trump donor, Eric Deters, claims Guilfoyle asked him to cover a $100,000 American Express bill before her 2025 confirmation in return for access to administration officials. Guilfoyle’s lawyer has disputed the authenticity of messages Deters provided, and Vice President JD Vance said the accusations should be assessed through facts rather than public opinion.
The State Department’s inspector general is reviewing both Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle and the U.S. Embassy in Greece, according to two people familiar with the matter. The inquiry follows claims by Eric Deters, a legal consultant and longtime Trump donor, that Guilfoyle sought $100,000 to cover an American Express balance before her 2025 confirmation hearing.
Deters says he did not make the payment. He shared a PDF of texts and Signal messages with NBC News; The Wall Street Journal first reported them, and the Daily Mail first reported the watchdog review. Guilfoyle’s lawyer has questioned whether the messages are genuine but has not detailed why. Vice President JD Vance said the matter should be judged on facts, not public opinion.
The investigation could affect how the public views political appointments and donor access to officials, especially if it shapes perceptions of foreign-service integrity. Embassy staff and U.S.-Greece diplomatic work may face distraction while the review proceeds. Lawmakers and watchdog officials may use the case to debate disclosure and vetting standards. Any fallout for Guilfoyle, the administration, or donors would depend on what investigators verify, so conclusions may remain uncertain until evidence is assessed.