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White House spokesperson Katie Zacharia said at her first press briefing that U.S. Ambassador to Athens Kimberly Guilfoyle had been asked to resign. The request follows allegations that Guilfoyle accepted gifts and demanded money in exchange for providing access to administration officials.

Zacharia, who recently took up the post, used the briefing to assess the Trump administration's record ahead of the upcoming U.S. congressional midterm elections. Opening by thanking President Donald Trump for appointing her, she said the administration had taken important steps, particularly on the economy, before the November 3 vote.

Asked what action the administration would take regarding the ambassador, Zacharia said, "We asked Ambassador Guilfoyle to resign. She was a wonderful person for the team, and we wish her the best of luck." Trump had said the previous day that Guilfoyle could be removed from her post.

Key Takeaways

• The White House asked Ambassador to Athens Kimberly Guilfoyle to resign over allegations of accepting gifts and seeking money for access.
• Spokesperson Katie Zacharia made the announcement at her first briefing, ahead of the November 3 congressional midterms.
• President Trump had said a day earlier that Guilfoyle could be dismissed.