Natalie Harp, Executive Assistant to President Donald Trump, has frequently been a topic of discussion in US media over the past few months. Known as one of the US President’s close and loyal aides, Natalie has now received a cash gift of $45,000 from Trump, sparking fresh speculation. News agency AFP reported this information on Wednesday (September 9), citing US media outlets.
A report by The Washington Post stated that two other White House staffers—communications advisor Margo Martin and Deputy Director of Oval Office Operations Chamberlain Harris—also received cash gifts of $45,000 each.
Financial disclosures released by Trump administration staff described these funds as “holiday cash gifts.”
US media reports note that Natalie is seen by Trump’s side almost constantly during his second term. She remains close to the President at various events, handling tasks ranging from typing social media posts on his behalf to printing out news and information for him. For this reason, some have even dubbed her the “human printer.”
According to the White House’s annual salary report submitted to Congress, Harp earns an annual salary of $150,000 in her role as Special Assistant to the President and Executive Assistant.
The revelation that she received such a substantial cash gift from Trump has raised questions regarding government employees receiving extra funds and federal ethics regulations.
However, the White House has maintained that these gifts are legitimate. A spokesperson stated that it has long been Trump’s custom to give gifts to his inner circle during the Christmas season—a practice that dates back to his career in the private sector. White House staff and aides are also included in this tradition.
The spokesperson added that these gifts are unrelated to the employees’ official duties; therefore, the payments comply with applicable laws and ethical standards.
Nevertheless, some ethics experts have questioned this explanation. According to them, federal legal restrictions could apply to providing such large sums of money to government employees in addition to their salaries. The matter would depend on the purpose of the gift and the circumstances involved.
