Joe Biden appoints all-female senior press team — first time in US history

US President-elect Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, the vice president-elect, has appointed an all-female senior communications team.

The appointments were announced in a statement published on the Biden-Harris transition website on Monday.

According to the statement, the appointments reflect Biden’s “continued commitment to building an administration that looks like America and is ready to deliver results for working families on day one”.

“Communicating directly and truthfully to the American people is one of the most important duties of a President, and this team will be entrusted with the tremendous responsibility of connecting the American people to the White House.

“I am proud to announce today the first senior White House communications team comprised entirely of women. These qualified, experienced communicators bring diverse perspectives to their work and a shared commitment to building this country back better.”

The appointees are Elizabeth Alexander, communications director for the first lady; Kate Bedingfield, White House communications director; Ashley Etienne, communications director for the vice president; Karine Jean-Pierre, principal deputy press secretary; Jen Psaki, White House press secretary; Symone Sanders, senior advisor and chief spokesperson for the vice president; and Pili Tobar, deputy White House communications director.

Commenting on the appointments, Harris said: “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”.

“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.”

Ron Klain, incoming White House chief of staff, described the appointees as respected communicators with a breadth of experience and a strong commitment to serving the American people.