Biden names Karine Jean-Pierre as new White House press secretary

WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden on Thursday named Karine Jean-Pierre as the new White House press secretary, succeeding Jen Psaki. Jean-Pierre would be the first Black lady and the primary brazenly homosexual particular person to carry the place.

“Karine not solely brings the expertise, expertise and integrity wanted for this troublesome job, however she’s going to proceed to paved the way in speaking concerning the work of the Biden-Harris Administration on behalf of the American individuals,” the president said in a statement. “Jill and I’ve recognized and revered Karine a very long time and she or he might be a robust voice talking for me and this Administration.”

Biden also announced that Anita Dunn would return to the administration as a senior adviser and assistant to the president. Psaki’s last day will be May 13.

Jean-Pierre was born in Haiti and immigrated to the U.S. as a child, growing up in Queens, New York. She has served as deputy press secretary since the start of the administration and has filled in for Psaki behind the White House podium and briefed reporters traveling with the president. 

Prior to joining the White House, Jean-Pierre served as chief of staff for vice presidential nominee Kamala Harris during the 2020 campaign and was the national spokeswoman for MoveOn.org during the 2016 election. She previously worked on both of Barack Obama’s presidential campaigns. 

Several media outlets reported in April that Psaki was planning to leave the White House to take an on-air role at MSNBC. Psaki served in the role for just over one year and three months. 

“Lots to say about how grateful I’m to @POTUS and @FLOTUS and the Biden household for trusting me to serve as @PressSec and loads of time earlier than my final day to share, however immediately is about @KJP46 so just a few ideas on this outstanding lady who will quickly be behind the rostrum every single day…” Psaki wrote on Twitter, praising her successor. “I can’t wait to see her shine as she brings her personal model, brilliance and beauty to the rostrum.”