Press Secretary
A press secretary is a communications official who serves as a spokesperson for a government, political leader, or organization, relaying official information to the media and answering journalists’ questions.
A press secretary is a communications official who serves as a spokesperson for a government, political leader, or organization. The role involves relaying official information to the media and answering journalists’ questions. In government, the position is often associated with daily briefings and public explanation of policy and events, with the White House press secretary being a prominent example.
Definition
A press secretary is a person officially responsible for managing press relations and public statements for a prominent figure or organization. Dictionaries describe the role as someone who gives information to the media and answers questions on behalf of that employer.
Typical responsibilities
Common duties include conducting press briefings, issuing written statements, coordinating messaging with other officials, and managing media access. In some settings, the role also includes crisis communications and advising leadership on how to handle news coverage.
Government use
In government, the press secretary is often the chief spokesperson for a president, prime minister, agency, or department. The White House press secretary is a prominent U.S. example, responsible for communicating the president’s actions and the administration’s positions to the press corps.
Related titles
The title is sometimes used interchangeably with press officer in general usage, though specific responsibilities can vary by institution and country. Some organizations use the term for a broader communications or public affairs role.
Key facts
- A press secretary is officially responsible for press and public relations for a prominent figure or organization.
- The role commonly involves speaking on behalf of the employer and fielding questions from journalists.
- In government settings, the press secretary often holds regular briefings and issues statements about policy and current events.
- The position may also involve advising leadership on communications strategy and media relations.
- The term is used in both political and non-political organizational contexts.
Canadian governments and political leaders also use press secretaries or similar communications officials to handle media relations, issue statements, and brief journalists.
Frequently asked questions
What is a press secretary?
What does a press secretary do?
Is a press secretary a government job?
What is the White House press secretary?
Is a press secretary the same as a press officer?
References
- Dictionary.com — https://www.dictionary.com/browse/press-secretarySupports: Basic definition as a person responsible for press and public relations and often holding press conferences.
- Merriam-Webster — https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/press%20secretarySupports: Definition as a person officially in charge of press relations for a prominent public figure.
- Cambridge Dictionary — https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/press-secretarySupports: Definition as someone who makes statements to the press or answers questions for an organization, especially a political organization.
- Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/White-House-press-secretarySupports: Role and duties of the White House press secretary, including briefings, media contact, and communication on behalf of the U.S. president.
- Annenberg Classroom — https://www.annenbergclassroom.org/glossary_term/white-house-press-secretary/Supports: White House press secretary as chief spokesperson for the U.S. president and regular briefings.
- Model Diplomat — https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/press-secretarySupports: Expanded explanation of responsibilities such as briefing the press, shaping messaging, and advising on communications strategy.
- Collins English Dictionary — https://www.collinsdictionary.com/us/dictionary/english/press-secretarySupports: Definition as a person responsible for press and public relations for a prominent figure or organization.