President Donald Trump’s close relationship with 35-year-old aide Natalie Harp has drawn renewed attention after she accompanied the 80-year-old president during a weekend at his New Jersey golf club.

Harp has become a frequent presence around Trump, attending Oval Office meetings, managing his social media posts and carrying a portable printer to provide him with news stories and other material.

Her presence during Trump’s golf weekend prompted fresh commentary from Democrats and political observers, with some questioning the unusually close relationship between the president and his aide.

Democratic senator mocks Trump-Harp relationship

Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff of Georgia highlighted Harp during an election rally in Atlanta on Sunday while criticising Trump over his handling of the Iran conflict.

Ossoff contrasted US sailors serving lengthy deployments aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln with what he described as Trump spending time golfing, trading stocks and travelling with Harp.

The comments quickly gained traction online, with several political commentators reposting clips from the rally and drawing attention to Ossoff’s remarks.

The White House has been contacted for comment.

Harp’s role around Trump

Harp’s relationship with Trump has attracted attention for some time. She frequently attends meetings in the Oval Office and has been described as one of the president’s closest aides.

Her presence also became notable during a recent security incident involving Trump’s return from Air Force One. According to reports, Harp was among a small group of aides who accompanied the president as he was moved onto a catering truck amid concerns about a potential Iranian assassination threat.

New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman later described Harp as a source of emotional reassurance for Trump, referring to her as his “comfort blanket”.

Book sheds light on their relationship

Trump’s relationship with Harp was also discussed in the book Regime Change by New York Times reporters Maggie Haberman and Jonathan Swan.

According to the book, Trump told members of his team early in his second term that Harp was exceptionally devoted to him.

The book also reportedly described personal letters Harp left for Trump, including one that expressed strong devotion to the president.

Harp’s estranged brother has previously criticised what he described as an “unhealthy” bond between his sister and Trump.

Her growing visibility alongside the president has continued to fuel public discussion about her influence and role within Trump’s inner circle.