Once viewed by some leftists as a “pioneering” figure and a source of unique talent, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre is now facing criticism from the same circles that once praised her. Initially lauded for her ability to deliver softballs to co-starring reporters, she now seems to have lost favor as she (presumably) shifts her allegiance away from the Democratic Party.
This shift became evident when she announced earlier this week that she was changing her party affiliation to independent, stating in a statement that she “determined that the dangers we face as a nation require us to free ourselves from the box.”
This political move, dubbed “a prominent ploy,” coincides with the release of her new book. During this period, two other media figures are also promoting books focused on what they claim are Joe Biden’s cover-ups, and Jean-Pierre is part of this narrative.
However, in the wake of her recent actions, Jean-Pierre has been met with backlash from Democrats. Former colleagues and Congressional Democrats have anonymously criticized her lack of authenticity and her relations with media allies.
One House Democrat reportedly mentioned to Axios that Jean-Pierre’s “explanation for this move is as confusing and disarrayed as her responses during a White House press conference.” A colleague even echoed similar sentiments while ridiculing her by stating, “Other than Sean Spicer… she was the worst press secretary in American history.”
Another former colleague reprimanded Jean-Pierre for her leadership skills.
According to Politico, a Biden administration staffer remarked on Jean-Pierre’s book release, saying, “Everyone thinks this is a joke.” They claimed she “reportedly didn’t know how to manage her team or craft and deliver a coherent message, often creating more issues than she resolved,” as cited by Axios.
These criticisms mark a stark contrast to the party’s earlier support when Jean-Pierre represented President Biden for over two years. Many who previously suggested she was suited for her role are now openly questioning her abilities, even suggesting that she faced attacks based on “racism” and “homophobia.” (Jean-Pierre is the first Black woman and openly LGBTQ+ press secretary in the nation.)
While leftist hypocrisy is not a novel concept, the sudden discomfort among Democrats regarding Jean-Pierre’s competence illustrates how the party uses identity politics to silence dissenters.
Jean-Pierre had previously been regarded as a member of the elite crew, and any critique of her subpar performance was typically dismissed. While her shortcomings were apparent behind closed doors, the party’s strategy involved using her identity traits (in this case, her race and sexual orientation) to quell any opposition.
Now that she has shifted her political allegiance, Jean-Pierre is deemed no longer advantageous to the party, and the truth regarding her unsuccessful tenure as press secretary can now be expressed openly.
Sean Fleetwood is a staff writer for The Federalist and a graduate of Mary Washington University. Previously, he served as a state content writer for the National Treaty, and his work has been featured in various outlets, including RealClearPolitics, RealClearHealth, and Conservative Review. Follow him on Twitter @shawnfleetwood.
Source: thefederalist.com