White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki will be leaving her position in a few days on May 13th, and she’ll be reportedly be joining MSNBC, but that has come with criticism.
The decision to be keen on discussions with news media outlets while still holding her role within the Biden Administration was a focal topic when Psaki sat down with Fox News. In an interview with Howard Kurtz, he pressed the press secretary to address the criticism she has received.
Many are critical of Psaki for continuing as the chief spokesperson despite reports of an informal arrangement between Psaki and one of the outlets covering her; however, she adds that she’s proud of her ability to maintain a high standard with her job.
“I know you can’t discuss your next job for ethical reasons,” Kurtz said. “But it’s been widely reported. You got a lot of criticism over possible conflicts during this period. Did that bother you?”
“Of course, because I’m a human being,” Psaki said. “But what I know is what I try to do every day, and I hold myself to a very high ethical standard. I took steps, and have taken steps, as I’ve had any discussions with any future employer that go over and above any requirements by government — recusing myself from many discussions as well.”
“And I’m proud of that. And I think and hope — and this is very public and a job like mine — people judge me by how I engage and interact with reporters. And I think it’s been clear I’ve treated everybody the same from the beginning, and that’s been a point of pride for me.”
Psaki will be replaced as the White House Press Secretary by her deputy, Karine Jean-Pierre.
Eduardo Razo is the Assistant Content Editor for BNM, which includes writing daily news stories on the news media industry. He can be found on Twitter @eddierazo_ or you can reach him by email at eddie1991razo@gmail.com.
