Former White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre has been selected as a grand marshal for New York City’s Pride Parade this June, marking her first public role since stepping down from her post earlier this year, as reported by The New York Post.
Jean-Pierre, 50, served as President Joe Biden’s chief spokesperson from May 2022 until January 2025. She was the first openly gay individual and the first black woman to hold the role of White House press secretary.
Her new role as grand marshal was confirmed by NYC Pride, which cited her “trail-blazing career” and high-profile position in American politics as reasons for the honor.
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“It goes back to that trail-blazing career that she’s had in politics and representing the community at the highest microphone that exists,” NYC Pride spokesperson Chris Piedmont told CBS News.
Jean-Pierre left the White House following Biden’s departure from office after his loss to President Donald Trump in the 2024 election. Her tenure in the administration was often criticized for lackluster press briefings and unclear messaging on key issues.
Speaking to People magazine last month, Jean-Pierre said she has not missed being in the public political spotlight since leaving Washington.
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“It was an honor and a privilege to have the job and to have done it for two and a half years, but I don’t miss it,” she said.
Since exiting the White House, Jean-Pierre says she has been focused on personal recovery and time with loved ones. “It’s been self-care, sleep, hanging out with my family, hanging out with my friends,” she added in the interview.
Jean-Pierre has not announced any permanent post-administration career plans. Her appearance as grand marshal for the NYC Pride Parade is her first major public engagement since leaving the White House.
The annual NYC Pride Parade is scheduled to take place in June, with Jean-Pierre expected to participate in leading the event down Manhattan’s streets.
The parade is one of the nation’s largest LGBTQ+ celebrations, drawing high-profile attendees and public figures from across the country.
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