The length of time Caroline Kennedy, the US ambassador to Australia, has spent in the US has drawn criticism, sparking discussions about her professional demeanor in diplomatic and political spheres. President Joe Biden appointed ambassadors in July of last year. Typically, ambassadors participate in mid-term meetings or attend significant bilateral events in their nation of origin. Kennedy’s focus on her job as ambassador has been called into question, though, as she has returned to the US on at least five occasions since being appointed.

SK News Although the U.S. State Department and White House are aware of Kennedy’s frequent visits to the country, according to Australia’s Sharri Markson, they do not voice any concerns. Kennedy may be considering a different kind of ambassadorship, one that better suits her prominent position and star power. She has paid tribute to her father, President John F. Kennedy, and his legacy on a few of her trips to the United States. She went to the “Cancer Moonshot” project launch, for instance, which was inspired by her father’s well-known speech.

Kennedy has also backed Australian projects and companies while visiting the country. For example, she helped Anthony Pratt begin his Visy company in Kentucky, which involved a substantial investment in a recycled paper mill. Her high-profile travels also involve activities associated with Australia’s acquisition of nuclear submarines and the AUKUS accord.

Kennedy’s supporters have defended her unconventional approach, claiming that her high profile and instant name recognition enable her to make connections and get meetings with powerful Americans, which can be essential in resolving issues and winning support for programs like AUKUS.

Her frequent absences from Australia have been criticized, nevertheless. Some critics contend that, particularly in unstable times, ambassadors need to be based largely in the nation they represent. They place a strong emphasis on the value of working across party lines and the necessity for ambassadors to interact with legislators.

Ambassador Kennedy’s approach to her post continues to be a subject of curiosity and discussion in Australian and American political and diplomatic circles as the conversation progresses.