Washington, D.C. — White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt made a brief but notable appearance outside the West Wing on Thursday afternoon, offering updates to reporters on a range of pressing issues — from U.S. efforts to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza, to an ongoing Department of Justice investigation into alleged misconduct involving the previous administration.

Leavitt, who spoke for just under two minutes before heading inside to meet with the families of American hostages, took a few rapid-fire questions and confirmed she would hold a full White House press briefing Friday at 1:00 PM.

Focus on Hostage Crisis and Ceasefire Proposals

Leavitt emphasized President Biden’s continued efforts to bring home both surviving hostages and the remains of those believed to have died while in captivity.

“The President has made it very clear in the proposals he has presented to the Israeli government — and that have been shared with Hamas — that the release of all hostages is non-negotiable,” she said. “That includes the remains of those who tragically lost their lives while being held in Gaza.”

Leavitt noted that the hostage issue remains a central pillar of the Biden administration’s push for a broader ceasefire agreement, signaling that negotiations remain active and sensitive.

Justice Department Investigating ‘Autopen Abuse’

In response to a question about potential pardons or legal actions related to past administrations, Leavitt reiterated the White House’s position, revealing that the White House Counsel’s Office is working in coordination with the Department of Justice to examine the alleged misuse of the autopen signature device by officials in the previous administration.

“This is a serious matter,” she stated, “and we’re committed to supporting the DOJ in getting to the bottom of it.”

The autopen device, traditionally used for routine signings, became a topic of scrutiny after reports surfaced suggesting it may have been used inappropriately for executive actions.

On Speaker Johnson and the EPC Vote

Pressed on whether the White House supports Speaker of the House Mike Johnson’s handling of a contentious vote concerning the Emergency Powers Continuation (EPC) act, Leavitt was measured.

“We’re in regular communication with the Speaker’s office,” she said, adding that the President believes “any credible evidence uncovered by the Department of Justice should be released publicly.”

Brief But Telling Appearance

Though the appearance was short, it highlighted the Biden administration’s careful messaging amid multiple crises at home and abroad. Leavitt, who has become a key communicator for the administration, concluded her remarks by noting she was on her way to meet with families of hostages.

“I’m going inside to talk to those families now,” she said. “I’ll see you all tomorrow at the full briefing.”

Her statement underscored the personal and political gravity of the moment — a White House balancing international diplomacy, domestic legal scrutiny, and the emotional weight of American lives still in limbo.

The scheduled press briefing on Friday is expected to offer more detail on both the hostage negotiations and the DOJ investigation, as well as the administration’s response to a shifting political landscape on Capitol Hill.