President Joe Biden announced Thursday that White House Chair Jen Psaki will leave the government on May 13 to be replaced by his deputy, Karin Jean-Pierre.

“Karin not only brings the experience, talent and integrity needed to this difficult task, but she will continue to lead in communicating the work of the Biden

Harris administration on behalf of the American people. Jill and I have known and respected Karin for a long time and she will be a powerful voice speaking for me and this administration

Jen Psaki sets the standard for restoring civility, respect and civility in White House briefings. I want to thank Jen for raising the bar

communicating directly and honestly with the American people, while maintaining a sense of humor. I thank Jen for her service to the country and wish her all the best for her future journey.

Jean-Pierre was a historic choice for the role, the first openly black and gay press secretary in the position's history. For months, 

she was considered Psaki's successor, having been secretary number two during her first year in office.

Biden decided to appoint him Thursday afternoon and called him to the oval around 2:30 p.m. The two had a conversation in which he offered the job and he accepted, said a person familiar with the matter.

That afternoon, Psaki and Jean-Pierre held a press meeting at the Secretariat and briefed the rest of the team,