Psaki Critiques Trump Administration’s Press Corps

Jen Psaki, the former White House press secretary, criticized the Trump administration for creating a press corps she described as “Kremlin-like,” filled with what she termed “sycophants” during media briefings.

Reflecting on her time behind the podium in the Biden administration, she discussed her experiences during an appearance with journalist Katie Couric. Psaki suggested that the current White House is “reshaping” who gets to ask questions.

“It seems more and more that the inquiries stem from sycophants who aren’t focusing on the stories that matter to everyday Americans,” she asserted, pointing out that some reporters are leaning into conspiracy theories with their questions.

She elaborated on the nature of today’s press, mentioning how rare it is for reporters to ask significant questions about prominent figures, like Ukrainian President Zelensky, when he visits the White House. “Unless you’re present, you might miss what’s truly going on, but this resembles the dynamic of a Kremlin press corps—a considerable issue,” she added.

Couric echoed Psaki’s sentiment, indicating that the Trump administration has been inviting “right-wing media” to press briefings. Psaki compared this situation to Russian media, implying that this is a strategic goal of the administration.

“I have vivid memories of traveling with John Kerry during my time at the State Department. You would want what they had—a press corps that was really just an extension of the Kremlin, reporting directly back to it,” she continued, reflecting her thoughts on the desired press dynamic.

Attempts to reach the White House for comment went unanswered.

Since Trump took office in January, several changes to press access have occurred, including the decision in February allowing nontraditional media outlets to apply for office access. Recently, the White House had permitted stricter access regulations, including not allowing reporters to visit certain staff offices without an appointment, a move condemned by the White House Correspondents’ Association.

Current press secretary Caroline Leavitt defended the new changes during a podcast, explaining that some reporters had been overhearing private discussions. “It became quite inappropriate for reporters to wander around with classified information,” she remarked, citing instances where reporters recorded conversations without permission.