• Charles Kushner, father of Jared Kushner, was confirmed as U.S. ambassador to France despite his criminal past. Indeed, Kushner’s confirmation raised eyebrows given his history.
• He pled guilty to tax evasion and witness tampering and was pardoned by Trump in 2020, allowing his ambassadorial confirmation.
• Kushner promises to strengthen U.S.-France ties amid tense relations with Europe, now formally recognized as ambassador.

The Senate confirmed Charles Kushner as the new U.S. ambassador to France. Lawmakers voted 51-45 in favor of the nomination. Kushner is a wealthy real estate developer. He also happens to be the father of Jared Kushner, who served as a senior adviser to Donald Trump. Jared is married to Trump’s daughter, Ivanka. Trump praised Charles Kushner when he nominated him in November. He called him a strong business leader, a generous philanthropist, and a skilled negotiator. Kushner now steps into a major diplomatic role at a tense time between the U.S. and Europe, confirming his position despite previous objections.

Charles Kushner Received a Trump Pardon After Serious Crimes

Charles Kushner has a serious criminal history. In 2005, he pleaded guilty to 18 counts. These included tax evasion, witness tampering, and making illegal campaign contributions. Prosecutors said Kushner hired a prostitute to target his brother-in-law. He had the meeting filmed and sent the footage to his sister. At the time, his brother-in-law was helping federal investigators. This act shocked many and led to a two-year prison sentence. Trump pardoned Kushner in December 2020, just weeks before leaving office. The White House highlighted Kushner’s recent charity work as a reason for the pardon, which eventually paved the way for his ambassadorial confirmation.

Kushner Faced Harsh Criticism From Chris Christie

Chris Christie, who was the U.S. attorney in New Jersey during the case, pushed for a longer sentence. He called Kushner’s actions one of the most disgusting crimes he ever prosecuted. Christie later became the governor of New Jersey and ran for president. The court gave Kushner the maximum prison time allowed under his plea deal. In addition to the prison sentence, Kushner had to pay $508,900 to the Federal Election Commission. He broke federal rules by failing to get permission from business partners before making large campaign donations in their names, yet he was confirmed for a diplomatic mission.

Kushner Pledges Stronger U.S.-France Relations

Kushner spoke at his confirmation hearing and promised to work closely with French leaders. He said he would help improve trade relations between the two countries and wants France to spend more on defense and support stronger European commitments to global security. He said he would push for the European Union to align more with the U.S. vision on military cooperation. Kushner emphasized the long friendship between France and the U.S. He said he would do everything he can to make it stronger – shared his personal story too. He said he is the child of Holocaust survivors. Many of his relatives died during World War II. His family came to America seeking freedom and safety, a story he shared after being confirmed.

Only One Democrat Voted to Confirm Charles Kushner

Most Democrats voted against Kushner’s nomination. But New Jersey Senator Cory Booker voted yes, confirming support across party lines. Kushner thanked Booker during the hearing. He said they share a strong and special friendship. Booker’s support gave Kushner a small but helpful bipartisan boost. Still, many Democrats expressed concern. They said Kushner’s criminal past made him a risky choice for such a major role. Senator Jeanne Shaheen said European allies feel nervous. She warned that the current moment calls for a trusted and experienced diplomat. She asked Kushner about his crimes. He admitted he made a very serious mistake. He told lawmakers that he paid a heavy price and has worked hard to move forward.

Charles Kushner Starts His Role During Global Tensions

Kushner takes his post in Paris at a tough time. Relations between the U.S. and Europe remain shaky. Trump’s trade policies caused rifts with longtime allies. The war in Ukraine also created sharp disagreements. Many in Europe feel unsure about America’s role in the conflict. Kushner said he understands those concerns. He promised to work with French leaders to rebuild trust, confirmed his role even as tensions rise. He said he respects the shared values and history between the two countries. As ambassador, he now has the chance to help fix strained partnerships. He also faces the challenge of proving that his past won’t affect his work. Time will show how well he can lead this important diplomatic mission.