Charles Kushner, a prominent real estate mogul and philanthropist, is making headlines again—not for his business ventures but for his nomination as the next U.S. Ambassador to France. Known as the father of Jared Kushner and former senior advisor to President Donald Trump, Charles has built a legacy of success and resilience. With his nomination by President-elect Trump, he’s set to take on a new role that could shape U.S.-France relations in the coming years. This exciting development adds yet another chapter to Charles Kushner’s remarkable life story.
Curious about the man behind the headlines? We’ve got all the details on Charles Kushner’s life, including his fascinating biography, his family connections, and the fortune he’s built through years of hard work. Dive in to learn about his rise in the business world, the controversies he has faced, and what this new chapter as a U.S. Ambassador might mean for his legacy.
Who is Charles Kushner? The Father of Jared Kushner
Charles Kushner is an American real estate developer and philanthropist, best known as the founder of Kushner Companies. Born on May 16, 1954, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, he is the son of Joseph and Rae Kushner, Jewish Holocaust survivors from eastern Poland who immigrated to the United States in 1949.
In 1985, Charles established Kushner Companies, focusing on real estate development and management. Under his leadership, the company expanded its portfolio, becoming a significant player in the New York and New Jersey real estate markets. However, in 2005, Charles pleaded guilty to charges of tax evasion, illegal campaign contributions, and witness tampering, resulting in a two-year prison sentence.
Despite these legal challenges, Charles resumed his role in the family business after his release. In December 2020, then-President Donald Trump granted him a full pardon.
Charles is the father of Jared Kushner, who served as a senior advisor to President Trump and is married to Ivanka Trump. Recently, President-elect Donald Trump nominated Charles Kushner as the U.S. Ambassador to France, highlighting his business acumen and philanthropic efforts.
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Throughout his career, Charles Kushner has been a prominent figure in real estate development and political fundraising. His complex legacy is marked by significant achievements and controversies.
Quick Bio
Here’s a detailed overview of Charles Kushner’s biography:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Charles Kushner |
| Date of Birth | May 16, 1954 |
| Place of Birth | Elizabeth, New Jersey, USA |
| Parents | Joseph and Rae Kushner, Jewish Holocaust survivors from eastern Poland who immigrated to the U.S. in 1949. |
| Education | – Bachelor’s degree from Hofstra University – Juris Doctor (JD) from Hofstra University School of Law |
| Career | – Founder of Kushner Companies (1985): A real estate development and management company. – Chairman of Kushner Companies: Oversaw significant real estate investments in New York and New Jersey. |
| Legal Issues | – 2005 Conviction: Pleaded guilty to tax evasion, illegal campaign contributions, and witness tampering; sentenced to two years in prison. – 2020 Pardon: Granted a full pardon by President Donald Trump. |
| Family | – Spouse: Seryl Kushner – Children: Jared, Joshua, Nicole, and Dara Kushner – Notable Relations: Father-in-law to Ivanka Trump (through Jared) and Karlie Kloss (through Joshua). |
| Recent Appointment | – 2024 Nomination: Appointed by President-elect Donald Trump as U.S. Ambassador to France. |
How old is Charles Kushner?
Born on May 16, 1954, Charles Kushner is currently 70 years old.
What is Charles Kushner known for?
Charles Kushner is recognized as the founder of Kushner Companies, a prominent real estate development and management firm.
Who is Charles Kushner’s wife?
Charles Kushner is married to Seryl Kushner (née Stadtmauer). Seryl, born in 1955, is the daughter of Morris and Marilyn Felsen Stadtmauer. The couple has four children: Jared, Joshua, Nicole, and Dara. Seryl is also the sister of Richard Stadtmauer.
Who are Charles Kushner’s children?
His children include Jared Kushner, former senior advisor to President Trump; Joshua Kushner, a businessman married to model Karlie Kloss; Nicole Kushner; and Dara Kushner.
What is the origin of the Kushner family?
The Kushner family originated from Novogrudok, Belarus, and is based in the New York metropolitan area.
What is Charles Kushner’s educational background?
He earned both his bachelor’s degree and Juris Doctor (JD) from Hofstra University and its School of Law, respectively.
What is the relationship between Charles Kushner and Murray Kushner?
Charles Kushner and his elder brother, Murray Kushner, worked together before falling out over business and personal matters.
Has Charles Kushner faced any legal issues?
Yes, in 2005, he pleaded guilty to charges including tax evasion and witness tampering, resulting in a two-year prison sentence. He was pardoned by President Donald Trump in 2020.
What is Charles Kushner’s connection to the Trump family?
His son, Jared Kushner, is married to Ivanka Trump, making Charles Kushner President Trump’s father-in-law.
What is the significance of the Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy and Rae Kushner Yeshiva High School?
The Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy and Rae Kushner Yeshiva High School, located in Livingston, New Jersey, are named after Charles Kushner’s parents and were built by him.
Charles Kushner’s Measurements
He stands approximately 5 feet 10 inches (1.75 meters) tall. While specific details about his weight and other body measurements are not publicly available, his professional achievements and contributions to the real estate industry are well-documented.
Here’s a table summarizing the publicly available details about Charles Kushner’s measurements:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 5 feet 10 inches (1.75 meters) |
| Weight | Not publicly disclosed |
| Build | Average |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Distinct Features | Professional and polished appearance |
Charles Kushner’s Net Worth
Charles Kushner, founder of Kushner Companies, has amassed substantial wealth through his ventures in real estate development and management. As of October 2024, the Kushner family’s net worth has surged to approximately $7.1 billion, a significant increase from $1.8 billion in 2016.
Primary Sources of Income:
- Real Estate Holdings: Kushner Companies’ portfolio includes residential, commercial, and retail properties, with a notable valuation of $2.9 billion.
- Investments: The family has diversified investments, including stakes in various ventures and properties.
It’s important to note that these figures represent the collective net worth of the Kushner family, encompassing assets and investments held by Charles Kushner and his immediate family members.
Donald Trump Nominates Charles Kushner as The Incoming Ambassador To France
In November 2024, President-elect Donald Trump nominated Charles Kushner, a prominent real estate developer and father of Jared Kushner, to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to France. This decision has garnered significant attention due to Charles Kushner’s past legal issues and his close familial ties to the Trump family.
Charles Kushner is the founder of Kushner Companies, a substantial real estate development firm with a diverse portfolio. His extensive experience in business and philanthropy has been highlighted as key qualifications for the ambassadorial role. President-elect Trump praised Kushner as a “tremendous business leader, philanthropist, and dealmaker,” expressing confidence in his ability to strengthen U.S.-France relations.
Controversies Surrounding the Nomination
The nomination is controversial due to Kushner’s 2005 conviction for tax evasion, illegal campaign contributions, and witness tampering, which led to a two-year prison sentence. President Trump pardoned him in December 2020. Critics argue that appointing a figure with such a background could complicate diplomatic relations and question the administration’s commitment to ethical governance.
France is one of America’s oldest allies, and the ambassador to France plays a crucial role in maintaining and enhancing this relationship. Supporters of the nomination believe Kushner’s business acumen could foster economic ties between the two nations. However, detractors are concerned that his past legal issues might overshadow diplomatic efforts and strain relations.
The nomination requires Senate confirmation. Given the controversies, the confirmation process is expected to be closely scrutinized, with debates likely focusing on Kushner’s qualifications and past conduct.
In summary, Charles Kushner’s nomination as U.S. Ambassador to France reflects President-elect Trump’s preference for appointing trusted associates to key positions. The outcome of this nomination will significantly impact the future dynamics of U.S.-France relations.
