Karine Jean-Pierre, the former White House press secretary under President Joe Biden, has announced her departure from the Democratic Party and her new status as an independent, coinciding with the upcoming release of her book, "Independent: A Look Inside a Broken White House, Outside the Party Lines". After serving in two Democratic administrations, Jean-Pierre’s decision marks a significant shift, as she was a prominent figure in Democratic politics and the first Black woman and openly LGBTQ+ individual to hold the press secretary role. Her book, set for release in October, promises an insider’s account of the tumultuous final weeks of Biden’s 2024 campaign and the “betrayal by the Democratic Party” that led to his withdrawal from the race.

In statements released by her publisher, Legacy Lit, Jean-Pierre emphasized that her choice to become an independent was not made lightly. She described her transition from being the President’s spokesperson to a private citizen, expressing that the challenges facing the nation require breaking free from traditional party labels and embracing innovative thinking. Jean-Pierre’s critique of the two-party system is central to her book, where she urges Americans to “embrace life as Independents” and join the growing bloc of voters who do not align strictly with either major party. Gallup data cited in the book announcement notes that independents now make up a dominant segment of the U.S. electorate.

Jean-Pierre’s tenure as press secretary was marked by tense exchanges with reporters over President Biden’s age and health, especially as questions mounted during the 2024 campaign. She routinely defended the administration’s policies on high-profile issues, including the war in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas conflict, while also facing criticism from detractors within and outside the White House. Her new book reportedly details not only her professional experiences but also her personal reflections on loyalty, political identity, and the future of American democracy.

In a video shared on Instagram, Jean-Pierre explained that her decision to leave the Democratic Party was the result of deep personal reflection and a desire to “think outside of our boxes and not be so partisan”. She called on Americans, regardless of political affiliation, to stand together in support of vulnerable communities and to move forward with respect and unity. Jean-Pierre’s announcement comes at a time of significant upheaval within the Democratic Party, following its losses in the most recent election and ongoing debates about the direction of the party and the country.