Biden administration has vehemently denied allegations of a clandestine internal scheme aimed at removing White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, as initially reported by The New York Post.
According to reports by Fox News on Sunday, April 28, 2024, deputy White House press secretary Andrew Bates forcefully refuted claims from multiple sources privy to the purported plans, which allegedly involved long-time Biden senior adviser Anita Dunn, backed by White House chief of staff Jeff Zients, enlisting prominent external Democrats to encourage Jean-Pierre to voluntarily resign.
“These claims are not only completely false but diametrically opposite to reality. Karine was never approached by anyone with such a proposal. She dedicates four hours daily to preparation. Neither Jeff nor Anita engaged in any such action; both have consistently supported her,” Bates stated to The Post.
According to The Post’s sources, Jean-Pierre’s superiors were dissatisfied with her practice of reciting prepared responses directly from her notes, which they deemed insufficient in advocating for President Biden as he gears up for his re-election campaign.
“Every press secretary utilizes notes. Why is she being singled out?” Bates questioned.
One source revealed that the initiative involved external individuals known and trusted by Jean-Pierre, persuading her that it was opportune to move on and that it would be beneficial for her career to depart after a tenure similar to previous press secretaries — approximately eighteen months.
Another source conveyed, “Jeff and Anita were attempting to secure Karine a graceful exit” to avoid her involuntary removal.
“There’s a significant diversity concern, and they’re apprehensive about the potential backlash,” the source added, noting that while someone from outside the administration did speak to Jean-Pierre, the plan had not yet materialized, and it was unlikely to result in her departure.
“She has consistently conveyed her intention to remain in her role until the election,” the source remarked.
“I believe Karine has resolved to stay, regardless of any obstacles.”
Both sources contended that the press secretary excessively relied on her notes, hindering her ability to provide the rapid rebuttals necessary for the position, with one asserting that she lacked comprehension of the issues, notwithstanding Jean-Pierre’s own belief that she is excelling in her role.
A February report by NBC News outlined a job offer Jean-Pierre received and declined in December from EMILY’s List, a pro-abortion organization.
Dunn seemingly acknowledged in an email shared with The Post that same month that Jean-Pierre had no intention of departing soon.
The White House’s denial regarding Jean-Pierre coincides with Biden encountering further setbacks in his re-election aspirations.
A recent CNN poll revealed former President Trump maintaining a lead (49%-43%) over Biden in a head-to-head matchup, which widened to nine points (42%-33%) when independent candidates Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. (16%) and Dr. Cornel West (4%), along with Green Party candidate Jill Stein (3%), were included.
Additionally, 55% perceived Trump’s presidency as successful, while 61% viewed Biden’s presidency as a failure.
