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Karine Jean-Pierre served as former President Joe Biden‘s White House Press Secretary, replacing Jen Psaki. Five months into Donald Trump‘s term, Karine announced via Instagram that she left the Democratic Party and formally became an Independent.

“And what I mean by that is in an era of misinformation, disinformation, the regressiveness of social policy, what we’re seeing currently right now, what I have decided to do, and I really have thought long and hard about this, is to follow my own compass,” Jean-Pierre said in June 2025. “And that’s what I’ve done, and that’s what this book does. And here’s the truth, and here’s how I will lay it out to you: I think we need to stop thinking in boxes, and think outside of our boxes, and not be so partisan.”

Below, Hollywood Life has rounded up five facts about Karine.

Karine was born in France

Born in Fort-de-France, Martinique on August 13, 1977, Karine was raised in Queens, New York. She would go on to graduate from the New York Institute of Technology before receiving her MPA from the School of International and Public Affairs at Columbia University.

She calls Jen Psaki a ‘friend’

Psaki described Karine as a “remarkable woman.” She added, “Representation matters and she will give a voice to many, but also make many dream big about what is truly possible. I can’t wait to see her shine as she brings her own style, brilliance and grace to the podium.”

Karine thanked Psaki for being a solid supporter. “She has been just a wonderful colleague, a friend, a mentor, during this past year and a half and I don’t think I would be here without so many people, but including her and she is just a true solid, amazing person.”

Karine always had Joe Biden’s stamp of approval

Biden had nothing but a glowing review for Karine when he announced she would take over the Press Secretary role. “Karine not only brings the experience, talent and integrity needed for this difficult job, but she will continue to lead the way in communicating about the work of the Biden-Harris Administration on behalf of the American people,” Biden said in a statement, adding that “Jen Psaki has set the standard for returning decency, respect and decorum to the White House Briefing Room.”

She broke ground as the first Black and out LGBTQ+ person in White House role

Before she became the first Black to take the role of White House Press Secretary, Karine already made history as the second Black woman to hold the daily press briefing back in May. She also became the first open LGBTQ+ person to step into the position. Karine previously lived in Washington D.C. with her ex-partner, CNN correspondent Suzanne Malveaux, and their daughter.

“This is a historic moment and it’s not lost on me,” Karine said during a past press conference announcing her role in the White House. “I understand how important it is for so many people out there. So many different communities that I stand on their shoulders. It is an honor and a privilege to be behind this podium.”

Karine once said ‘Donald Trump hates everything I am.’

During an EXCLUSIVE interview with Hollywood Life, Karine explained that she jumped at the chance to join Biden’s 2020 campaign team to fight for the issues left to the wayside by Donald Trump’s administration, such as racism and environmental concerns. “I felt like this is my job as a mom to step in. I thought about my six year-old and I thought about what kind of planet or world or country are we going to be leaving to her and her peers,” she explained, before pointing out, “I’m a Black woman, I’m a gay woman and I’m an immigrant. And Donald Trump, he is someone who hates everything I am.” To check out the full interview, click here.