Senator Ossoff's remarks about Trump aide Natalie Harp spark criticism from Republican figures
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Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff referenced Trump aide Natalie Harp in a rally speech, prompting responses from several Republican officials who said the comments were inappropriate.
Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff mentioned President Donald Trump’s aide Natalie Harp during a rally on Sunday, suggesting the president was focused on personal travel rather than official duties. The remark referenced a recent incident in which Harp was taken on a separate aircraft amid security concerns for Air Force One.
Republican leaders responded publicly. Former House speaker Newt Gingrich posted on X that Ossoff should apologize to Harp, stating that similar language used against a Democratic woman would be condemned. Conservative commentator Scott Jennings said the comment was "vile" and urged women of all political persuasions to take note. Former Senator Meghan McCain also criticized the remarks, describing them as "sexist attacks" on Harp.
The controversy has drawn attention to Harp’s role in the Trump administration, including reports that she lacked a security clearance and that she had previously written personal letters to the president. Trump later responded to a reporter’s question about the incident by calling the journalist "loud" and advising her to be "quiet."
The exchange illustrates ongoing tensions between Democratic and Republican officials over the portrayal of staff members in the White House.