Karine Jean-Pierre, the current White House press secretary, has been elevated to the position of senior adviser to the president, ABC News reports.
“Karine has been a trusted advisor to the President and all of us here at the White House since day one. Her counsel will be critical to get as much done as possible for the American people in the coming months,” remarked Jeff Zients, the president’s chief of staff.
Jean-Pierre broke barriers in 2022 when she was appointed as press secretary, becoming the first Black woman and the first openly gay individual to hold the post.
“Jill and I have known and respected Karine a long time and she will be a strong voice speaking for me and this Administration,” President Biden said in a 2022 statement, expressing his confidence in her as press secretary.
In her new role, Jean-Pierre will join the inner circle of the president’s senior advisers, which includes figures like Mike Donilon, Steve Richetti, and Bruce Reed. A White House official highlighted that this promotion not only reflects the trust Biden has in Jean-Pierre but also his dedication to ensuring a range of perspectives, both diverse and multi-generational, are represented in his decision-making process.
Her new responsibilities will take effect immediately, though she will continue serving as press secretary for the remainder of Biden’s term, making her the first press secretary in several decades to also hold the title of senior adviser.
This shift emphasizes the growing role of communications and press in the current administration. After senior adviser Anita Dunn stepped down, Communications Director Ben LaBolt was similarly promoted to senior adviser, further illustrating the prominence of the communications team within the White House.
{Matzav.com}