Karine Jean-Pierre has been chosen by President Biden to become the first openly-LGBTQ White House Press Secretary.
Pierre’s background is as a lecturer at Columbia University and a political analyst for both NBC News and MSNBC. She was then named Biden’s Principal Deputy Press Secretary. Her new role as Press Secretary marks two historic firsts. She is the first Black woman to hold the position and the first openly-LGBTQ person to hold the position. Jean-Pierre is an open lesbian and is partnered with former CNN host, Suzanne Malveaux.
According to NBC News, President Biden said in an official statement, “Karine not only brings the experience, talent and integrity needed for this difficult job, but she will continue to lead the way in communicating about the work of the Biden-Harris Administration on behalf of the American people. Jill and I have known and respected Karine a long time and she will be a strong voice speaking for me and this Administration.”
Earlier in the week, Jean-Pierre joined Jen Psaki in the briefing room to make the formal announcement. Her first official day will be May 14th, as Psaki is leaving the administration for a job at MSNBC. According to CNN, at the reveal, Jean-Pierre stated, “…this is a historic moment and it’s not lost on me. I understand how important it is for so many people out there. So many different communities that I stand on their shoulders. It is an honor and a privilege to be behind this podium.”
