Karine Jean-Pierre Reflects on Biden’s Staggering Debate Fallout

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — Former White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre expressed her shock at how Democratic Party leaders publicly criticized then-President Joe Biden, leading to his decision to withdraw from the 2024 race. During an event at the Institute of Politics at Harvard Kennedy School, Jean-Pierre detailed the internal struggles within the party that unfolded after Biden’s contentious debate performance last June.

Jean-Pierre described the situation as unprecedented, noting that there was a disconnect between party leadership and the broader party base. “I had never seen anything like it before. I had never seen a party do that in the way that they did, and it was hurtful and sad to see that happening,” she said.

She recounted the three-week period following the debate as particularly painful, stating, “There was a firing squad around a person who I believe was a true patriot, a person who I believe did everything that he can for this country.” This suggests a deep sense of loyalty towards Biden, despite the challenges he faced.

Jean-Pierre also highlighted the circumstances surrounding Biden’s decision to step back from the race. Following his debate performance, which many deemed disastrous, calls from influential Democratic leaders mounted for him to relinquish the party’s nomination. She reinforced her support for the president’s choices, emphasizing that his leadership during a successful midterm election should have warranted unity from the party.

Reflecting on the situation, she stated, “Instead of coming together to really be unified and trying to figure out how do we save our democracy, how do we fight back, that’s what I was seeing.” Jean-Pierre’s remarks come at a time when the Democratic Party is still grappling with the implications of the election.

Though her insights resonated with some, they drew immediate backlash from conservative commentators. Several took to social media to criticize her handling of the situation during her tenure as press secretary.

Fox News contributor Joe Concha remarked, “She openly lied about Biden’s mental decline,” and fellow conservative commentator Matt Whitlock said, “The most important takeaway from this is Karine still doesn’t understand that they did anything wrong.”

Jean-Pierre has since distanced herself from the political scene, revealing that following her departure from the White House, she has focused on self-care and family. “I have not watched the news. I have really tried to focus on self-care. I’ve really tried to focus on my daughter,” she shared.

As the Democratic Party continues to navigate the aftermath of the 2024 election, Jean-Pierre’s comments serve as a reminder of the complexities and challenges faced within political hierarchies, especially during crucial moments that could redefine party leadership.