My Political Thoughts · Opinion by Kevin Harvey
The White House press secretary speaks for the president and the administration, explains what the White House is doing, and takes questions from reporters. That last part matters. Anybody can read a statement. What happens when a reporter says, “Okay, but who’s paying for it?” White House press briefing
So when Trump said he offered the job to UFC boss Dana White, my first thought was, what are we doing here? You got a guy who knows how to sell a fight. I’m still waiting to hear who’s gonna explain the bill.
What happens at a White House press briefing?
The press secretary can announce a White House decision, explain the president’s position, or bring in an official who knows the details. Then reporters get to ask about what they just heard. A briefing can go from a prepared statement to a question the White House would rather skip. White House press briefing
Say the White House announces a new program to help people pay their energy bills. Fine. When does it start? Who qualifies? Where do people apply? That’s the part I want to hear. A family trying to keep the lights on can’t do much with “the president is committed to helping.”
Who does the press secretary speak for?
The press secretary speaks for the administration. The reporters in the room have their own job. They can ask for details, challenge an answer, and come back to a question that got dodged.
I expect a press secretary to defend the president’s decisions. I also expect them to know what those decisions mean for the rest of us. And if they need to check a number, say so and come back with it. We can survive five minutes without somebody declaring victory.
These are not serious people leading our government. Trump floated Dana White for White House press secretary like he was putting together a damn fight card. People want answers about their bills, and this man is talking about bringing UFC fighters to the briefing room. Hit play and hear what Dana White had to say for himself.
Why the Dana White story got under my skin
Dana White knows how to get people to tune in. Hell, I tuned in. But when Trump pitched the guy for a job that involves explaining government decisions, he talked up his fighting spirit and brought up having UFC fighters assist him. That tells you what caught Trump’s attention. I’m looking at what happens when somebody asks him a question he doesn’t like. Associated Press
If you had one question for the White House and one chance to ask it again, what would it be? Watch the full My Political Thoughts episode and drop your question in the comments.
