WASHINGTON — The new White House press secretary has opened his first formal briefing by assuring reporters he’s here to help them do their jobs.
Jay Carney is a former bureau chief for Time magazine. He promised Wednesday to provide journalists the “best information” they need to cover the White House. But he made clear that he works for the president and will promote the president’s agenda from the briefing room podium.
Carney is a well-known name in Washington, having served most recently as Vice President Joe Biden’s communications director.
Carney replaces Robert Gibbs, a longtime Obama aide. Gibbs left the White House last week and will give paid speeches before eventually joining the president’s reelection campaign.