Senate Hearing for Ambassador Nominee
At a Senate confirmation hearing, President Trump’s candidate for the ambassadorship to Greece, Guilfoyle, expressed her dedication to defending U.S. interests. She emphasized the need to enhance defense cooperation and energy partnerships while addressing China’s and Turkey’s influence.
During her appearance before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Guilfoyle referred to the ambassadorship as a “unique humble honor” and lauded Greece as “the birthplace of democracy.” She shared personal anecdotes about her Puerto Rican mother and Irish immigrant father, committing to represent both the President and the American people loyally.
Guilfoyle, who has a background as a prosecutor, TV host, and former first lady of San Francisco, spoke about her career’s focus on advocacy and public service. “I was entrusted with being a voice for those who couldn’t speak for themselves,” she noted. She highlighted how her media experience has allowed her to raise awareness of critical issues and advocate for justice.
If confirmed, her main priorities would include boosting Greece’s defense modernization, fostering energy partnerships, and enhancing U.S. exports and investments. She mentioned that Greece is expected to allocate 3% of its GDP to defense spending by 2025, with the possibility of reaching 5%, making it a significant buyer of U.S. military hardware, like F-35s and Apache helicopters.
“There’s a significant opportunity to increase U.S. energy exports to Greece and its neighbors,” she pointed out, referring to the LNG export project. “Greece could serve as a U.S. gas hub in the region.”
Guilfoyle also voiced her support for the “three plus one” framework involving the U.S., Greece, Israel, and Cyprus, underlining its significance for national security. She commended Greece’s assistance in evacuating Americans from Israel and pledged to work hard to sustain these alliances.
She expressed some concerns regarding Chinese ownership of key ports in Greece, particularly Piraeus, while commending Greece’s recent efforts to limit foreign control of critical infrastructure.
“I’ll work with Greece to prevent undue foreign influence,” she assured Senator Barasso, criticizing the management of Piraeus as “disappointing.”
On energy matters, Guilfoyle emphasized the necessity for American companies to expand in Greece, particularly noting the region’s role in mitigating the effects of Russia and China. She pointed out the importance of LNG potential, asserting, “Energy is a master resource.”
When questioned by Senators about the rising tensions between Greece and Turkey, Guilfoyle reiterated her commitment to the rule of law but chose not to directly criticize Turkey, instead highlighting the need for strong alliances and bilateral partnerships.
“It’s important to focus on stable allies like Greece,” she remarked, acknowledging that not all NATO members align perfectly with U.S. interests, especially Turkey, which she noted has maintained ties with Russia.
Chairman Lisch pressed her on the F-35 situation with Turkey, encouraging her to build a relationship with Ankara. Guilfoyle confirmed her longstanding ties to Ambassador Tom Barrack, emphasizing the importance of coordination.
Furthermore, she committed to supporting Greek Orthodox and diaspora communities, emphasizing shared values and the necessity of religious freedom.
“This position engages with complex geopolitical issues related to the EU and G20,” she stated. “I will work tirelessly on behalf of the United States.”
The hearing concluded with bipartisan acknowledgment of the strong U.S.-Greece relationship. Guilfoyle expressed her intention to uphold the values of her immigrant family, asserting her belief that the U.S. should demonstrate its status as a strategic and reliable partner on the global stage.
