CNN contributor Scott Jennings reacted with an eye-roll on Tuesday when host Abby Phillip alluded to his unsuccessful bid for the White House press secretary position. The moment occurred on CNN Newsnight as Phillip questioned the qualifications of individuals appointed to roles within President Donald Trump's administration.
Jennings, who was reportedly a candidate for the press secretary job and had submitted performance clips to White House officials, was seated next to Phillip when she posed her question. Phillip wondered aloud why the president struggled to hire qualified individuals for public-facing roles, suggesting that capable candidates were available.
"Maybe one of them is sitting at the table today, I don’t know," Phillip said, turning to Jennings. The camera then captured Jennings shaking his head and rolling his eyes before taking a deep breath.
Earlier in the discussion, Jennings had offered a degree of leniency to Katie Zacharia, who recently made her debut as press secretary. Her first press briefing drew criticism from some political observers, including Joe Lockhart, a former press secretary under President Bill Clinton, who questioned her readiness for the role.
Jennings acknowledged that stepping into the briefing room can be challenging. He also noted that Karoline Leavitt, whom Zacharia succeeded, had been a "tough act to follow." Jennings advised Zacharia to take time to acclimate to the White House environment, consult with staff, and familiarize herself with key issues before future briefings.
"And that will make you feel more comfortable and prepared for the next one," Jennings stated. "But look, you know, everybody’s had tough days in whatever job they’ve had. She might have had one today, but they’ll be better days."