Biden campaign adviser Anita Dunn to leave White House

By Jeff Mason and Trevor Hunnicutt

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Anita Dunn, a longtime adviser to President Joe Biden who oversaw communications strategy and helped steer his 2020 election campaign, is departing the White House to work for a super political-action committee that is supporting Vice President Kamala Harris' presidential campaign.

Dunn's departure is the first and only so far among Biden's senior staff in the aftermath of the president's disastrous debate against former President Donald Trump last month that sparked a crisis within the Democratic Party and led to his exit from the 2024 race.

Dunn was one of the officials involved in decision-making about the debate; her husband, attorney Bob Bauer, reportedly played Trump in the debate prep sessions.

Biden, 81, appeared confused and failed to complete sentences or challenge the Republican former president, leaving Democrats furious and fearful that he was too old to run for reelection or to serve a second four-year term.

He stepped aside and endorsed Harris on July 21.

"Four years ago, when I launched my campaign for the battle for the soul of our nation, I was grateful Anita Dunn was right there with me," Biden said in a statement on Tuesday.

"I deeply value her counsel and friendship and I will continue to rely on her partnership and insights as we finish the job over the next six months."

Dunn has been a Democratic operative for decades. She worked in President Barack Obama's White House and on multiple political campaigns. In a statement, she thanked Biden and Harris.

“It’s been an honor and privilege to serve in this White House, with this President and this team, during this transformational term," she said. "I am grateful to President Biden and Vice President Harris for their leadership and giving me the opportunity to be part of what they have accomplished for the American people.”

The Washington Post was first to report Dunn's exit.

A source familiar with the decision said she would be helping a super political-action committee that is working to elect Harris.

(Reporting by Jeff Mason and Trevor Hunnicutt in Washington; Editing by Matthew Lewis)