US State Department Spokeswoman Jen Psaki is President Barack Obama's new communications director.

Psaki is replacing veteran media strategist Jennifer Palmieri, who is moving to join Hillary Clinton's likely presidential campaign team.

Psaki's appointment is seen to be crucial, as Obama treads on the last two years of his term.  She will begin with her new job on April 1^st.

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"I'd say Jen is irreplaceable -- if Jen Psaki hadn't agreed to step in," the President said in a statement. "I fully trust Jen -- and I am thrilled she's agreed to come back to the White House as communications director."

Obama meanwhile thanked Palmieri whom he calls a good friend.  The president said Palmieri has shown excellence and brilliance in her two years as communications director.

Psaki is an old face in the White House where she helped draft Obama's message during his first term.  She has also been part of Obama's team since 2007.  The transition is expected to go smoothly, as Psaki is known to be already immersed in the White House.

Psaki has gained the respect of the State Department press corps, as she was seen to be effective in conveying the government's policies. 

Despite new challenges that come with her new role, the White House had promised to be a bit flexible, as she expects a baby in July.  Obama and White House Chief of Staff Denis McDonough will make sure Psaki fits her new job.

Psaki will serve as the president's assistant, with the same rank as White House press secretary Josh Earnest.

Some of the key issues Psaki is expected to be working around include the domestic policy issues Obama had highlighted in his State of the Union Address. 

She is also expected to help Obama deal with international issues such as the Ukraine conflict, and the ISIS.

TagsPsaki, Obama, US, State Department