Coronavirus
published : 2023-09-06
White House Press Secretary Grows Frustrated with Reporter's Questions on Biden's COVID Testing
Karine Jean-Pierre bristles at inquiries about testing procedures
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre appeared to grow frustrated during a press briefing when questioned about President Joe Biden’s COVID-19 testing regimen.
CBS News correspondent Christina Ruffini pressed Jean-Pierre on the 'cadence' of Biden's COVID testing, following First Lady Jill Biden's recent contraction of the virus.
Jean-Pierre mentioned that Biden had tested negative on Monday evening and Tuesday morning, but Ruffini continued to ask for more details.
Ruffini suggested that Jean-Pierre was withholding information about Biden's routine, stating that sharing the testing schedule was a basic question.
Jean-Pierre clarified that the CDC does not recommend daily testing after close contact and reiterated that Biden had already taken the required tests.
Despite Jean-Pierre's explanations, Ruffini persistently sought more information, leading to further frustration.
Finally, Jean-Pierre explained that the decision on testing frequency is made by the physician in consultation with the individual.
The White House did not provide an immediate response to requests for comment.
