(NewsNation) — Former White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre shared insights about her final year in the role, reflecting on the challenges of representing former President Joe Biden during the last weeks of his reelection campaign.
She criticized Democratic leaders for undermining Biden’s bid for a second term, calling it a betrayal of a “true patriot.”
Speaking at an event at the Institute of Politics at Harvard University, Jean-Pierre was asked about her experience in the three weeks leading up to Biden’s decision to drop out. She emphasized her full support for whatever choice Biden made, stating, “It was truly his decision, and I supported that 100%.”
Jean-Pierre emphasized that the hardest part of that period came from within the Democratic Party itself. She described it as a “firing squad,” adding, “I’d never seen a party do that in the way that they did, and it was hurtful and sad to see that happening, a firing squad around a person who I believe was a true patriot.”
When pressed further, Jean-Pierre confirmed she was referring to Democratic leaders who openly criticized Biden, calling the situation “shocking” and surprising given his accomplishments. She expressed disappointment that instead of uniting, the party turned on him, suggesting it hurt Biden’s chances in the election.
“It was truly unfortunate, and I think it hurt us more than folks realized,” Jean-Pierre said.
Reflecting on her time as press secretary, she called it “an honor and a privilege” but admitted, “I have not missed it at all.” She also highlighted her pride in being the longest-serving female press secretary in history.
