White House Press Secretary Stephanie Grisham stepped down, handing the post over to Kayleigh McEnany, who was formerly a spokesperson on Trump’s campaign.
The role of White House press secretary has been completely transformed during the Trump era, with Grisham holding the role for nine months and never doing a press briefing.
However, McEnany is perhaps the most vocal defender of President Donald Trump yet to assume the role, and one remark that she made in late February is getting a lot of attention after she was appointed to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue on Tuesday.
In an appearance on Fox Business on February 25, McEnany said that the United States would not be affected by the coronavirus because of the leadership of Trump.
Speaking to now-former Fox Business anchor Trish Raegan, McEnany said, “This president will always put America first. He will always protect American citizens.”
She continued, “We will not see diseases like the coronavirus come here. We will not see terrorism come here and isn’t that refreshing when contrasting it with the awful presidency of President Obama.”
See her past remarks below:
On the same day Larry Kudlow said coronavirus was “contained” on Feb. 25th, Trump’s campaign spox made an even more bold claim.
— Andy Kaczynski (@KFILE) April 4, 2020
“We will not see diseases like the coronavirus come here..and isn't it refreshing when contrasting it with the awful presidency of President Obama." pic.twitter.com/O0DDH3Rvkw
Grisham is not leaving the White House entirely — she is returning to the East Wing where she will work under First Lady Melania Trump.
When she stepped down, Grisham said, “I continue to be honored to serve both the President and First Lady in the Administration. My replacements will be announced in the coming days and I will stay in the West Wing to help with a smooth transition for as long as needed.”
McEnany is Trump’s fourth White House press secretary and some of them have gone on to colorful futures. Sean Spicer briefly appeared on “Dancing With the Stars” and received support for his dancing role from the president.
Anthony Scaramucci, who briefly served as Trump’s White House communications director, has flipped on his view of the president and now frequently attacks his former boss.