News

Actions

White House briefing twist: Give thanks, then ask questions

Posted at 4:39 PM, Nov 20, 2017
and last updated 2017-11-20 16:39:36-05

WASHINGTON (AP) — White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders added a new, holiday-themed prerequisite for reporters wanting to ask a question at the daily briefing.

They had to say what they’re thankful for before she would take their questions Monday.

Sanders opened the last briefing before Thanksgiving by saying she was thankful for her family, her faith, members of the military, first responders and the chance to serve.

She said “it’s only fair” that reporters also say what they’re thankful for. Most reporters played along. A few just asked their questions. Some said they were thankful for the First Amendment.

It’s not a new practice. Chief of staff John Kelly recently only called on reporters who knew a Gold Star family.