On Wednesday, White House Deputy Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre made history by taking the podium in the U.S. presidential press room, becoming the second Black woman to assume this prestigious role. Judy Smith was the first Black woman to take the podium during President George H.W. Bush's administration in 1991. Jean-Pierre stated, "It is a great honor to be here today," adding that she is aware of the "historical significance" of her presence.
Born in Martinique to Haitian parents, Karine Jean-Pierre is also the first openly LGBTQ+ woman to hold the prestigious position at the "James Brady Briefing Room.” The forty-something francophone has long been active in civil society organizations and worked on Barack Obama’s election campaigns (2008 and 2012) as well as Joe Biden’s 2020 campaign before joining his team at the White House.
She had previously provided press briefings aboard Air Force One. However, those roles are less glamorous compared to the daily briefing that is broadcast live, where even a minor mistake can be costly. Her assuming this role is particularly significant, as current White House spokesperson Jen Psaki has announced her intention to leave the position after about a year.
