Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg’s unannounced visit to East Palestine, Ohio on Thursday has raised eyebrows as his press secretary refused to comment on the trip while cameras were rolling.
This visit comes almost three weeks after the February 3 derailment incident that caused toxic materials to burn and seep into the ground.
His press secretary Kerry Arndt was by his side. Reporters attempted to ask Buttigieg questions about the purpose of his visit, but their queries went unanswered. When asked if she could talk to the reporters, Arndt refused, stating that she did not want to speak with them if they planned on filming her. Turning Point USA reporter Savanah Hernandez attempted to ask Buttigieg some questions, but when he failed to respond, Arndt intervened.
I asked Sec. Buttigieg why it took him almost 3 weeks to come and speak to residents of East Palestine.
His press Secretary then told me I was aggressive for trying to ask questions on camera: pic.twitter.com/bOB52DIq0O
— Savanah Hernandez (@sav_says_) February 23, 2023
