Valerie Jarrett

Definition

Valerie Jarrett is an American attorney and political advisor who served as a senior advisor to President Barack Obama from 2009 to 2017. Known for her close relationship with Obama and her influence in his administration, she played a crucial role in shaping policies and initiatives, especially those concerning social issues, healthcare, and urban development.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Valerie Jarrett was born on November 14, 1956, in Shiraz, Iran, and moved to the United States as a child.
2. She served as the CEO of the Habitat Company before joining the Obama administration, where she was known for her expertise in housing and urban development.
3. Jarrett played a significant role in crafting the Affordable Care Act, which aimed to expand healthcare coverage to millions of Americans.
4. As a trusted confidante to Obama, she was involved in key decision-making processes and was often referred to as one of his most influential advisors.
5. After leaving the White House, Jarrett continued her work in public service and advocacy, focusing on issues such as women's rights and community engagement.

Review Questions

• How did Valerie Jarrett's background influence her role in the Obama administration?
  • Valerie Jarrett's diverse background, growing up in Iran before moving to the U.S., along with her professional experience in law and urban development, greatly influenced her role in the Obama administration. Her unique perspective allowed her to understand complex social issues, which she addressed through her work on policies such as the Affordable Care Act. Additionally, her experience in various sectors helped her navigate challenges within the administration effectively.
• Discuss the impact of Valerie Jarrett's contributions on key policy initiatives during Obama's presidency.
  • Valerie Jarrett had a profound impact on key policy initiatives during Obama's presidency. She played a critical role in shaping the Affordable Care Act and pushed for reforms that improved healthcare access for millions. Furthermore, she was involved in initiatives addressing urban development and social justice issues, making her contributions integral to the administration's efforts to create lasting change and address pressing societal concerns.
• Evaluate how Valerie Jarrett's leadership style and approach to collaboration shaped the dynamics within the White House Office during Obama's presidency.
  • Valerie Jarrett's leadership style was characterized by collaboration and consensus-building, which significantly shaped the dynamics within the White House Office. By fostering an environment where diverse voices were heard and valued, she ensured that various perspectives were considered in decision-making processes. Her ability to connect with both colleagues and external stakeholders facilitated effective communication and collaboration, helping to align the administration's goals with the needs of different communities. This approach not only strengthened relationships within the White House but also enhanced the implementation of policies that reflected a broader range of interests.

Related terms

Senior Advisor: A key member of the White House staff who provides strategic advice and supports the president in decision-making and policy development.

White House Office: The office that includes the president's closest advisors and aides, responsible for managing various aspects of the executive branch and assisting in day-to-day operations.

Policy Initiatives: Programs or proposals put forth by the government to address specific issues, often involving legislative action or executive orders.