Kimberly Guilfoyle out as U.S. Ambassador to Greece by October 31?

Analysis

President Trump said on Monday, October 12, that he is "not happy" with Kimberly Guilfoyle and that "we're looking at it" when asked if he would fire her. She is still in post, and her lawyers say she "will continue to serve." So the outcome is not settled yet, and the forecast leans toward her leaving by October 31. The reason is the pressure from the top. A senior U.S. official told reporters on Sunday that Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are "extremely p‐‐‐‐d off" over reported misconduct allegations and could decide her future as soon as this week. Those allegations are disputed, and her legal team has denied wrongdoing. Reports also say a State Department watchdog is looking at her conduct, including claims she accepted gifts or favors from wealthy Greek businessmen. One official reportedly could not confirm that a formal investigation had been launched, so treat that part as unconfirmed. Removal is also easy to do. As a presidential appointee she serves at Trump's pleasure and can be removed without congressional approval or a finding of misconduct. Under the rules, even an announced firing or resignation would count, whenever it takes effect. The counterargument is simple. Considering a firing is not the same as doing it, and she appeared with Rubio at a meeting in Athens on October 7. Watch for a decision from Trump or Rubio this week. A public announcement either way would change the picture most.