All was quiet as the press pool stood feet from the White House in Spring 2024 waiting for the president to call us in for his meeting with congressional leaders.
Suddenly, I heard squeals behind me similar to that of sorority girls after completing rush. Members of my fellow press pool bear-hugged the guest who had come up behind them: White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.
The press gushed over Jean-Pierre: “It has been so long!” “I love your outfit!” “Are you joining us today?”
“Should I be one of you today?” Jean-Pierre joked as the press laughed. “Should I ask for a raise?”
Reporters often walk a fine line between developing sources and making friends in an effort to obtain information. Physically embracing the very person you’re expected to be grilling a few hours later on behalf of the American people seems an obvious crossing of that line.
