Natalie Harp, 35, has become a prominent figure in Donald Trump’s inner circle, drawing public attention after Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff mocked Trump for preferring to ‘travel with Natalie’ rather than ‘do the job’ of president. Harp, who holds the title of Special Assistant to the President, is described by some as the closest aide to Trump—often accompanying him on flights, in the Oval Office, and to golf outings.

From Bone Cancer to Trump’s Campaign

Harp’s rise began in 2019 when she credited Trump with saving her life. She told Fox News that she was diagnosed with stage 2 bone cancer and that the Right to Try Act,signed by Trump in 2018—allowed her to receive experimental treatments. After her speech, Trump invited her to address the 2020 Republican National Convention, where she said, ‘They didn’t give me the right to try experimental treatments, Mr. President. You did, and without you, I’d have died waiting for them to be approved.’ Trump reportedly praised her performance, saying she ‘illuminated the screen of television like very few people I have seen have done.’

However, the Washington Post later reported that medical experts cast doubt on her claims, noting that the Right to Try law would not have granted her access to the treatment she received, as the drug had already been approved by the FDA.

From TV Host to White House

After Trump’s 2020 election loss, Harp became a TV host on the conservative network One America News Network (OAN), where she became a vocal defender of Trump and a prominent voice in the 2020 election denial movement. She left OAN in 2022 to rejoin Trump’s campaign. Her role in the White House is officially as an executive assistant, a position typically responsible for scheduling, communications, and logistics. But according to multiple sources, Harp’s influence appears to extend far beyond that. She is described as ‘omnipresent’,feeding Trump positive news stories and social media posts, earning her the nickname ‘the human printer.’

Her close relationship with Trump has also drawn scrutiny. In January 2023, a CNN report revealed that Harp became enraged when she was denied a seat in Trump’s motorcade and then jumped into the trunk of an SUV to ensure she wouldn’t be left behind. Her estranged brother told CNN that she has an ‘unhealthy obsession’ with the president.

Public and Political Reactions

Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff’s recent comments during a campaign event in Georgia sparked further media attention. He mocked Trump for ‘building his ballroom and travel with Natalie on their apparently defenseless flying palace.’ Trump responded by calling Ossoff ‘Pee-wee Herman’ and said he ‘would much rather do other things.’

The White House responded by calling Harp ‘one of the most loyal and hardest-working members of the team.’ Meanwhile, comedian Rosie O’Donnell joked about Trump and Harp on ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’, saying, ‘You got to realize it’s time to hang up your wig and let Natalie tuck you in.’ The comment drew roars of laughter and applause from the audience.

Despite the controversy, Harp remains a visible and trusted figure in Trump’s orbit. Her role and influence reflect the personal and often unconventional nature of the current administration. As the 2024 election approaches, her presence in the White House is likely to remain a point of discussion and speculation.