In a recent White House press briefing, tensions flared as White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre and Kelly O’Donnell, the president of the White House Correspondents Association, took issue with a comment made by Newsmax reporter James Rosen.
The incident occurred as O’Donnell, who is also a reporter for NBC News, was discussing President Joe Biden’s schedule.
O’Donnell had suggested that Biden should come to the press briefing room to address the press directly, stating, “We’d invite the President to come here and tell us directly…” This was when Rosen interjected with a pointed remark, saying, “If he’s awake.”
REPORTER: "We would invite the president to come here and tell us…"@JamesRosenTV: "…if he's awake!" 🔥 pic.twitter.com/R9S4BWcifS
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) July 3, 2024
The comment seemed to reference recent reports about Biden’s reportedly heavy sleep schedule. Earlier this week, The New York Times reported that Biden did not start work until 11 a.m. last week and took mid-afternoon naps during his debate prep.
O’Donnell appeared to be angered by Rosen’s quip, responding sharply, “That’s inappropriate.” Jean-Pierre also scolded Rosen, echoing O’Donnell’s sentiment that his comment was “inappropriate.”
"We would invite the President to tell us directly"
"If he's awake"
"That's innapropriate" pic.twitter.com/7ik6k18jsu
— Brennan Murphy (@brenonade) July 3, 2024
The exchange underscores the ongoing scrutiny and criticism surrounding Biden’s schedule and work hours. Critics argue that the president’s reported sleep schedule and late start times raise questions about his ability to handle the demands of his office effectively.
However, the White House has defended Biden’s schedule, attributing his late start times to his age and the demanding nature of his job. They have also emphasized that the president is fully engaged and focused on his responsibilities.
The incident at the press briefing highlights the often contentious relationship between the press and the White House. It also underscores the challenges faced by reporters in obtaining information and responses from the administration on sensitive topics.
As the 2024 presidential campaign heats up, the scrutiny of Biden’s schedule and work habits is likely to continue. It remains to be seen how the White House will address these concerns and whether they will have any impact on Biden’s reelection prospects.
