Natalie Harp Avoided Clearance
Reports say Trump aide Natalie Harp went without security clearance for more than a year.
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Updated Aug 19, 8:20pm ETBoth sides, every morning
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The reporting
President Donald Trump’s executive assistant Natalie Harp worked in the White House for more than a year without the routine security clearance normally obtained by West Wing staffers, after repeatedly declining to seek it. Trump personally intervened after concerns grew among the Secret Service and the White House counsel’s office over her access. Harp works out of the Oval Office, has a regular seat on Marine One and communicates with world leaders on Trump’s behalf. Her reason for declining to complete the clearance process was not known.
Analysis & opinion
Clearance ScandalMostly Left
Harp’s reported lack of routine security clearance despite close access to Trump is a serious breach. Her prolonged access without proper vetting deserves scrutiny because it created an obvious security concern.
Devoted FlattererMostly Left
Natalie Harp’s value to Trump lies less in ordinary aide work than in intense personal devotion and flattery. She serves as an unusually indulgent gatekeeper who reinforces Trump’s preferences and shields him from unwelcome input.
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