Trump names Charles Kushner, father of son-in-law, as ambassador to France

President-elect Trump announced that Charles Kushner, the father of his son-in-law, would serve as the U.S. Ambassador to France. 

“I am pleased to nominate Charles Kushner, of New Jersey, to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to France. He is a tremendous business leader, philanthropist, & dealmaker, who will be a strong advocate representing our Country & its interests,” Trump wrote in a Saturday post on Truth Social.

“Together, we will strengthen America’s partnership with France, our oldest Ally, & one of our greatest,” Trump continued in his post.

Emmanuel Macron, France’s president, applauded Trump quickly after his win and said he was ready to work with the incoming administration.

“Congratulations, President @realDonaldTrump,” Macron wrote on X. “Ready to work together as we did for four years. With your convictions and mine. With respect and ambition. For more peace and prosperity.”

However, in the midst of Trump's widespread criticism, Macron lauded the Republican's ability to advocate for Americans during a second term in office.

“I think that our role here, in the European Union, is not to comment on Donald Trump’s election to see if it’s good or not. He was elected by the American people, and he will defend the interests of the Americans. This is legitimate and a good thing,” Macron said in a video on the social platform X earlier this month.

Kushner is well known for founding the real estate firm Kushner Companies and providing legal services as a former attorney. Kushner was also appointed to the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council and serves on the Board of Trustees for New York University, where Trump's youngest son Barron Trump now goes to school.

He previously served two years in prison before being released after pleading guilty in 2004 to charges of tax evasion, lying to the Federal Election Commission and retaliating against a federal witness. Trump pardoned Kushner during the last month of his presidency.