It's only surprising in that they have, to this point, largely shrugged off criticism. Jenn Psaki, for example, has been extremely dismissive of any criticism

It's only surprising in that they have, to this point, largely shrugged off criticism. Jenn Psaki, for example, has been extremely dismissive of any criticism whatsoever. Now, I think they are realizing that the (white)house is on fire, and it appears that they feel like they have to respond and cannot dismiss/gaslight their way out of it.