Top Biden Advisor Jumps Ship

White House senior adviser Gene Sperling is departing from his current role to join Vice President Kamala Harris’ re-election campaign, signaling a ramped-up effort by Democrats to address policy issues in the upcoming presidential race against former President Donald Trump. Sperling will take on a role as a senior economic adviser to Harris’ policy team. This transition was confirmed by White House officials who wished to remain unnamed.

Sperling’s career includes notable service under Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, where he led the White House National Economic Council. More recently, President Joe Biden enlisted him to oversee the administration’s $1.9 trillion pandemic relief package. In this capacity, Sperling played a key role in expanding the child tax credit and served as the administration’s liaison to unions and automakers during the auto strikes.

President Biden lauded Sperling’s contributions, stating, “Under Gene’s leadership, the American Rescue Plan has delivered critical economic support to communities nationwide, safeguarded millions of union pensions, made unprecedented federal investments in public safety, and helped sustain numerous small businesses.” This statement, which was shared with The Associated Press, highlights the significant impact Sperling had on various economic initiatives.

Sperling has a history of collaboration with Harris, dating back to her tenure as California’s Attorney General. During the Obama administration, he often consulted with her, and their professional relationship continued through her time in the Senate. Most recently, they worked together to promote monthly payments from the expanded child tax credit, among other policy efforts.

While these pandemic-related programs were credited with halving child poverty and providing rental assistance to millions, they have also faced criticism from Republicans who argue that such measures contributed to rising inflation. This economic issue has been a significant concern for many voters, with increased costs in essentials such as groceries, housing, and gasoline. Recent financial market fluctuations, including a decline following a disappointing jobs report, have fueled apprehensions about the U.S. economy’s stability.

Despite these criticisms, the White House, defended by Chief of Staff Jeff Zients, attributes inflation to global factors and asserts that Sperling’s efforts have contributed to sustaining one of the strongest economies worldwide. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper, a Democrat, praised Sperling’s initiatives as “generational investments” and recognized his role in ensuring these programs effectively supported states.