Trump jokes about Melania's absence during Ireland trip with aide Natalie Harp
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President Donald Trump joked that First Lady Melania Trump chose not to join his Ireland visit, while aide Natalie Harp accompanied him on the trip.
President Donald Trump traveled to Ireland on a business and golf itinerary, accompanied by aide Natalie Harp. Speaking at the U.S. ambassador’s residence in Dublin, Trump said First Lady Melania Trump declined the seven-hour flight from Washington, D.C., adding that she was "watching in spirit" and sending her regards.
Trump’s remarks elicited laughter from the audience.
Melania Trump later appeared publicly in late August to promote her "Fostering the Future" initiative.
Natalie Harp, a former news anchor who joined the White House staff in 2022, has been described by officials as a close assistant who handles a range of tasks for the president.
A spokesperson for the first lady said there is no conflict between Melania Trump and Harp, stating that critics should focus on their own conduct rather than her personal life.