White House aide Natalie Harp delayed security clearance for over a year, prompting presidential intervention
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Natalie Harp, a senior aide to President Donald Trump, repeatedly avoided the standard security clearance process for more than a year before completing required forms after direct involvement by the president.
Natalie Harp, a 35-year-old aide who frequently accompanies President Donald Trump, reportedly declined to undergo the routine security clearance procedures required for West Wing staff for over a year, according to a report by MS NOW. Unnamed sources said her reasons for avoiding the process were not disclosed, but concerns from White House security officials led Trump to intervene, after which Harp submitted the necessary paperwork for a federal background investigation and was granted clearance.
A national security official expressed worry that Harp's close proximity to the president could give her access to sensitive information beyond that of other senior officials. Harp is described as a gatekeeper for Trump, handling printed poll data and favorable news coverage for him.
Senator Jon Ossoff of Georgia has criticized Trump’s reliance on close aides, alleging the president surrounds himself with staff who act as a “security blanket.” The senator also referenced the Qatar-donated Air Force One, which was grounded earlier this year over security concerns.
Forbes contacted the White House for comment but had not received a response at the time of publication.