White House press secretary Jen Psaki faced criticism after her deputy, Karine Jean-Pierre, claimed that President Biden is the best communicator in the White House. During a press briefing, Jean-Pierre said that Biden’s “ability to really connect with people” was unmatched, drawing ridicule and mockery from some media outlets and conservative commentators.
Critics pointed out that Biden has a history of gaffes and verbal stumbles, and that his approval ratings have been dropping in recent months. Some also questioned whether Jean-Pierre’s comments were an attempt to deflect criticism away from the president’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and other issues.
In response to the criticism, Psaki explained that Jean-Pierre’s comments were “taken a bit out of context” and that she was referring specifically to Biden’s ability to connect with the American people on a personal level. Psaki also defended the president’s record on a range of issues, including his handling of the pandemic and the economy.
The incident underscores the challenges that the White House faces in managing its messaging and public image. While the president’s communications team plays a crucial role in shaping public perceptions, it must also navigate a complex media landscape and respond to a wide range of criticism and scrutiny. As the Biden administration continues to grapple with a range of domestic and international challenges, it remains to be seen how effective its messaging and communications strategies will be in the months and years to come.