White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre faced backlash online after claiming that 64% of Americans support President Biden’s pardon of his son Hunter Biden. In her first televised press briefing since the pardon, Jean-Pierre cited a poll that showed 64% of Americans agreeing with the pardon, but the poll actually showed that 64% of Democrats supported the pardon, while only 34% of Americans overall approved of it.
Jean-Pierre’s claim was quickly debunked by fact-checkers and social media users, who pointed out the error. “She’s wrong,” wrote Elias Atienza, features editor at Check Your Fact. “The YouGov poll shows 64% of Democrats, not 64% of Americans, supported the pardon.”
Many social media users criticized Jean-Pierre’s mistake, calling it “psychotic” and “dreadful.” “Couldn’t you try to suck a little less during these last few weeks, @PressSec? Or just lie a little less? My GOD you’re awful. Just absolutely dreadful,” wrote Chicks On The Right.
Trump 2024 deputy rapid response director Greg Price corrected Jean-Pierre, saying, “It’s pronounced YouGov and it showed 64% of Democrats approved of the pardon while just 34% did overall. Worst Press Sec ever.” Social media strategist Chuck Callesto agreed, saying, “She is the worst without doubt. Prove me wrong.”
The backlash against Jean-Pierre’s mistake was widespread, with many calling her the “worst Press Secretary in history.” “My gosh she literally got a poll backwards from the White House podium,” wrote Republican communicator Matt Whitlock.
