The White House briefing room was filled with tension on Monday as the press secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre, skillfully dodged questions about the president’s health and visits from a Parkinson’s doctor.
Dr. Kevin Cannard, a neurologist specializing in movement disorders from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, visited the White House eight times in eight months, according to visitor logs.
In response to the scrutiny, White House physician Dr. Kevin O’Connor released a statement later that evening stating that President Biden had only seen a neurologist during his annual physical and insinuating that Dr. Cannard’s visits were not solely for the president.
During the daily briefing, Jean-Pierre avoided discussing Dr. Cannard or his visits to the White House, citing “security reasons” and privacy concerns, even though the White House had already disclosed his name. This led to frustration among reporters in the room.
Accusations flew as reporters accused Jean-Pierre of withholding critical information about the president’s health, generating intense debate within the briefing room.
The White House has faced increasing pressure from both Democrats and the media to be more transparent about Biden’s physical and mental well-being.
Tensions peaked when CBS News correspondent Ed O’Keefe demanded answers, to which Jean-Pierre responded by emphasizing that the president had only seen a neurologist during his routine physicals.
Despite persistent questioning, Jean-Pierre stood firm on not disclosing the purpose of Dr. Cannard’s visits, leading to a heated exchange.
The strained relationship between Jean-Pierre and the press was evident as tensions escalated during the briefing. Jean-Pierre expressed frustration at the tone of questioning and defended her efforts to provide accurate information.
As the situation grew more contentious, Jean-Pierre reiterated her commitment to transparency while pushing back against what she perceived as personal attacks.
The atmosphere in the White House briefing room remains tense as President Biden navigates a challenging political landscape following a particularly contentious debate.
