Karine Jean-Pierre, White House Press Secretary, announced Tuesday that two additional members of the press team were to leave amid an ongoing staff shakeup.
Jean-Pierre stated that White House Rapid Response Director Mike Gwin, and White House Press Assistant Michael Kikukawa, would be departing to work in public affairs at U.S. Treasury.
Jean-Pierre stated, “On a sad note Michael Gwin, our dear friend, and colleague, will be leaving us to Treasury, where he’ll serve as deputy assistant secretary of Public Affairs.” Gwin served as White House director for Rapid Response over the past 16 months and has responded to some of the most difficult and challenging issues. Gwin is an indispensable member of this team despite these sometimes difficult stories. His moral clarity and poise are unfailing.
She continued, “And joining Gwin in the Treasury Department will our very own Michael Kikukawa where he will serve als a spokesperson.” Michael, also known to you all as Kiku is a strong and reliable engine in the press shop. His tireless work ethic and commitment to the mission of this group have been unsurpassed.”
The White House Press Team is currently undergoing a personnel shakeup in preparation for the midterm elections. Jen Psaki, former White House press secretary, resigned last month to take up a position as a MSNBC commentator.
Last week, the White House announced that Vedant Patel, assistant press secretary at the State Department was retiring to become principal deputy spokesperson. Amanda Finney, chief of staff at the press office was also leaving for a high-ranking communications position at the Energy Department.
Although the administration claims that the departures are routine, there are multiple media reports about inner turmoil at White House. This comes as Biden’s approval ratings plummet ahead of the midterms.
