By Samantha Uebel, Staff Writer
President-elect Joe Biden announced an all-female senior White House communications team when he takes office in January. All seven women elected to office will occupy the most visible roles in the administration.
“I am proud to announce today the first senior White House communications team comprised entirely of women,” Biden said. “These qualified, experienced communicators bring diverse perspectives to their work and a shared commitment to building this country back better.”
Jen Psaki will be the new press secretary for the White House. Kate Bedingfield will serve as White House communications director and Pili Tobar will serve as deputy White House communications director. The role of principal deputy press secretary will be filled by Karine Jean-Pierre. Symone Sanders will serve as a senior adviser and chief spokesperson for the vice president and Ashley Etienne will serve as communications director for the vice president. Elizabeth Alexander will serve as communications director for first lady Jill Biden.
All seven women have served in previous roles for either the president-elect or the vice-President elect during their time in office and on the campaign trail.
Senior arts management major Brianna Saverino didn’t initially hear about the announcement but is excited about the news.
“He’s really pushing the progressive agenda,” said Saverino. “I’m here for it.”
Senior education major Olivia Ali was also excited about the news and encouraged by what these changes could mean.
“This is an important moment in history,” said Ali. “One day when I’m a teacher, I can tell my students I remember this moment, and hopefully inspire girls in my classes to strive towards their dreams. Having diversity in the faces of the nations shows little kids of all ages that they can be whatever they want to be when they grow up.”
Kamala Harris, who will also be making history as the country’s first female vice president, believes this team is just what the country needs.
“Our country is facing unprecedented challenges, from the coronavirus pandemic to the economic crisis, to the climate crisis, and a long-overdue reckoning over racial injustice,” Harris said. “To overcome these challenges, we need to communicate clearly, honestly, and transparently with the American people, and this experienced, talented, and barrier-shattering team will help us do that. These communications professionals express our commitment to building a White House that reflects the very best of our nation.”
Senior broadcasting major Jada Harris agrees that this is a change the country needs to see.
“I think it’s great to set an example for the people to show women are more than capable and qualified in politics, especially after the last administration,” she said.
President-elect Joe Biden and Vice-President-elect Kamala Harris are set to be sworn into office on Jan. 20, 2021.
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