Donald Trump is facing a pointed new attack from Georgia Sen. Jon Ossoff over his work habits and his close association with Natalie Harp. The Democratic senator singled out the president’s executive assistant during a campaign speech in Atlanta. His remark quickly shifted attention back to Harp’s prominent place inside Trump’s circle.
Donald Trump’s close relationship with aide Natalie Harp is drawing fresh political mockery and scrutiny
During his Aug. 16 campaign rally, Ossoff accused Trump of focusing on personal interests instead of his presidential duties. “He wants to build his ballroom and travel with Natalie,” Ossoff said, while also referencing the aircraft donated by Qatar.
Harp, 35, serves as Trump’s executive assistant and frequently travels with him. Her access drew more attention last month when she joined Trump during a security-driven aircraft switch after leaving Turkey. Several senior officials remained on the other aircraft.
Meanwhile, the Trump aide relationship has attracted scrutiny well beyond Ossoff’s latest comment. Harp’s estranged brother, Preston Harp, previously described her bond with Trump as “very unhealthy”.
However, he rejected suggestions of a scandalous relationship and instead described her attachment as ideological and emotional.
Harp has become one of the more recognizable White House aides in Trump’s inner circle. The 35-year-old executive assistant frequently accompanies the president on official travel and attends key White House meetings.
Her visibility has also led some outlets to label her Trump’s “blonde aide,” though her formal position is executive assistant to the president.
She has also accompanied Trump during public appearances and trips. In July, Harp joined him at Lindsey Graham’s funeral while Melania Trump did not attend. No evidence links the first lady’s absence from that event to Harp.
The White House pushed back after Ossoff’s latest remarks. Communications director Steven Cheung defended Harp as a hardworking public servant and accused the senator of unfairly targeting her.
Ossoff’s “travel with Natalie” line has placed the Donald Trump aide back at the center of a growing political argument over loyalty and access inside the White House.
TELL US: DO YOU THINK JON OSSOFF’S COMMENT ABOUT DONALD TRUMP AND NATALIE HARP CROSSED A LINE?
