The White House press secretary is a senior official who serves as a spokesperson for the executive branch, particularly the president, senior aides and government policies. The role includes gathering information about the administration’s actions and events and communicating its responses to developments.

The press secretary regularly interacts with journalists and the White House press corps, often through press briefings. The president appoints the press secretary, who serves at the president’s pleasure. The position does not require Senate confirmation and is not a Cabinet post.

History

George E. Akerson became the first person to serve in the role in 1929, during Herbert Hoover’s presidency.