Press Secretary, White House

Leaders are measured by their success in communicating with the public; however, the evaluation of communication has changed dramatically throughout the American presidency. With no paid staff to assist early presidents in their dialogue with reporters, newspapers were awarded government printing contracts to promote programs. In contrast, the modern White House Press Office employs 25 to 50 staffers, depending on the administration. The press secretary leads this office, to speak on behalf of the president across print, broadcast, and Internet channels, issue credentials to journalists, distribute as many as 15 news releases each day, hold televised daily briefings as well as press gaggles (untelevised but on-the-record meetings), and maintain nearly real-time information between the president and the news media. With comments broadcast instantly and globally, ...