During a potential security threat in Turkey last month, U.S. President Donald Trump discreetly transferred from Air Force One using a catering truck, while some individuals stayed on board.
The passengers who remained on the plane included U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and the 13-member press pool.
Traveling with Trump were deputy chief of staff Dan Scavino, Oval Office operations director Walt Nauta, and executive assistant Natalie Harp, who has recently gained media attention.
Natalie Harp’s Background
Natalie Harp, 35, serves as a special assistant and executive aide to the president, often accompanying him in the Oval Office and during trips. She has supported Trump during legal challenges and assassination attempts in the past.
According to a Fox News profile, Harp has been part of Trump’s team since 2022, providing crucial support and assistance.
Senator John Barrasso praised Harp, describing her as an indispensable aide to the president and highlighting her role as a key advisor.
Harp has established a mobile office to accompany Trump, ensuring quick access to information and documents as needed.
U.S. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, left, and Harp converse with U.S. President Donald Trump at a golf course in Washington, D.C., on June 28. (Ken Cedeno/Reuters)
Harp first caught Trump’s attention in 2019 as a bone cancer survivor who praised the president for supporting a law granting patients access to experimental treatments.
Several Republicans have emphasized Harp’s loyalty to Trump and her admiration for his leadership.
In a profile on Fox, Harp described Trump as a focused and resilient leader who prioritizes his goals over personal comfort.
According to authors Maggie Haberman and Jonathan Swan’s book Regime Change: Inside the Imperial Presidency of Donald Trump, Harp’s affectionate letters to Trump during the election campaign reportedly raised concerns among the Secret Service.
Recent Developments
Senator Jon Ossoff of Georgia, who is seeking re-election and has been linked to potential presidential aspirations, made critical remarks about Trump during a campaign event.
Sen. Jon Ossoff of Georgia addresses a rally for U.S. presidential candidate Kamala Harris in Atlanta on Oct. 19, 2024. (Dustin Chambers/Reuters)
Ossoff criticized Trump’s priorities, suggesting that the president prefers personal pursuits like White House renovations and flying with Harp on Air Force One over fulfilling his duties.</