White House press secretary exits briefing after heated exchange
Jean-Pierre defends hurricane funding, exits after clash with reporter
Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House Press Secretary, walked out of her briefing Monday following a heated exchange with a reporter about the federal response to Hurricane Helene. Fox News correspondent Peter Doocy questioned Jean-Pierre on why the Harris-Biden administration had nearly $157 million available for displaced individuals and refugees in Lebanon but needed additional funding from Congress for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) amidst its shortfall after Hurricane Helene’s destruction.
Jean-Pierre responded, stating the administration takes the situation seriously and has provided over $200 million to the affected regions. She accused the question of spreading misinformation, which she deemed dangerous. When Doocy further inquired about the perceived inconsistency in funding priorities, Jean-Pierre reiterated that his question was based on misinformation.
The president, 81, had cautioned House and Senate leaders on Friday that without extra funding, FEMA would have to prioritise immediate needs over long-term recovery efforts. He urged Congress to allocate additional resources to prevent such trade-offs, highlighting that many communities, not just those affected by Hurricane Helene, require disaster assistance.
Karine Jean-Pierre has a VERY difficult time explaining why Kamala and Biden can send billions to Lebanon, but don't have enough to fund disaster assistance in North Carolina.
She eventually gets mad and walks out of the room. pic.twitter.com/hTaIfHdwIN
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) October 7, 2024
Doocy challenged Jean-Pierre, suggesting that labeling his question as misinformation was unjust. Jean-Pierre countered, asserting that funds are allocated to impacted areas and those in need. The conversation escalated when Jean-Pierre maintained that the administration has resources for survivors of both Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton, despite the president’s letter to Congress indicating otherwise. She explained that the additional funding request was due to uncertainties about Hurricane Milton, a category 5 storm in the Gulf of Mexico.
Doocy pointed out the contradiction, to which Jean-Pierre responded that Congress must provide extra assistance and funding to the Disaster Relief Fund. She concluded by expressing that this is the administration’s stance, dismissing dissenting opinions, before closing her notebook and exiting the briefing room.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Charlie Kirk shares his perspective on Karine Jean-Pierre’s tumultuous White House press briefing, highlighting Peter Doocy’s alleged disinformation spreading and her abrupt exit.(read more)
- The Maine Wire reports Karine Jean-Pierre stormed out of the press room after being questioned by Peter Doocy about FEMA funds, confirming further allocations.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why did Karine Jean-Pierre leave the briefing?
She left after a heated exchange with a reporter about funding and misinformation.
What was Peter Doocy’s question about?
He asked why funds were available for Lebanon but additional FEMA funding was needed for Hurricane Helene.
How much money has been allocated to areas impacted by Hurricane Helene?
Over $200 million has been provided, according to Jean-Pierre.
Why does President Biden want more FEMA funding?
To avoid foregone recovery activities and meet urgent needs.
What is causing the need for additional disaster relief funds?
Uncertainty over the impact of Hurricane Milton, a category 5 storm.
