CNN and MSNBC have mentioned Natalie Harp, an aide to former President Donald Trump, over 700 times in the days following a viral stump speech comment by Sen. Jon Ossoff, D-Ga. Transcripts indicate that between a recent Monday and Sunday, Harp's name appeared at least 308 times on CNN and 344 times on MSNBC. Through mid-Tuesday of the following week, CNN mentions increased to 318, while MSNBC surpassed 400.
Ossoff's comment, which was seen by some as suggesting an inappropriate relationship between Harp and Trump, has since been the subject of attempts by the senator to distance himself from the innuendo. Despite Ossoff's efforts, the coverage of Harp has continued.
Reports highlighted Harp's expressions of loyalty to Trump and her inclusion in a close circle that accompanied him on a flight out of Turkey last month. MSNBC reported that Harp does not possess a security clearance, despite her close access to the former president. CNN explored Harp's past social media posts, which reportedly showed strong support for Trump, including in relation to events on January 6.
Further scrutiny by CNN included a report, citing anonymous sources, that Harp allegedly insisted on riding in the trunk of an SUV to accompany Trump to an October 2023 court appearance due to a lack of space. The network also faced criticism for airing an interview with Harp's estranged brother, Preston Harp.
The White House issued a strong rebuke of CNN White House correspondent Kristen Holmes after she questioned Trump about Ossoff's remark. CNN responded to the White House's criticism, defending its reporter and stating the attacks were "beneath the office."
Curtis Houck, managing editor for the Media Research Center's NewsBusters, suggested that the extensive coverage by CNN and MSNBC is a result of their opposition to Trump. He told Fox News Digital that these networks are "more than willing to invoke someone else and drag their name through the mud."