Natalie Harp, a close aide to former President Donald Trump, has an estranged brother who is openly critical of both Trump and his sister's loyalty to him. Preston Harp, who lives in Nicaragua, described Trump as a "national embarrassment" and stated that his sister's relationship with the former president is "very unhealthy." Preston made these remarks in an exclusive interview with the Daily Mail, revealing deep divisions within his family.
Preston Harp, 38, now resides in Nicaragua, a country led by Daniel Ortega, whom Trump has criticized. Preston works with activist S. Brian Willson, described by the Reagan administration as a domestic terror suspect. This lifestyle contrasts sharply with his sister Natalie's, who is often seen accompanying Trump and has been called his "human printer" for her habit of sharing printed articles and social media posts with him. Natalie Harp, 34, has publicly credited Trump's "Right to Try Act" with helping her recover from bone cancer, which garnered her attention and a speaking engagement at the 2020 Republican National Convention.
Family Division Amid Tragedy
The rift within the Harp family appears to have deepened following the death of their father, Robert Harp, in July 2020, which was ruled a suicide. Preston stated that he has not spoken to his sister or mother since their father's death. He claims a significant disagreement arose over how to respond to the tragedy; Preston wanted to acknowledge the suicide, while his mother, Jill, and sister, Natalie, preferred to say he died in his sleep. This division led Preston to share the news of his father's suicide with extended family, further fracturing relationships. Other relatives have also confirmed a fallout over Robert Harp's death and the subsequent private cremation instead of a funeral.
Preston described their mother, Jill, as "extremely conservative" and "deeply religious," with a focus on "hellfire" in her Christian teachings. He recalled her forcing him to discard Pokémon cards due to religious objections. In contrast, Preston described himself as rebellious, while Natalie was seen as the dutiful child who followed their mother's instructions closely. Their father, Robert, a former professor at an evangelical Christian school, was described as more supportive of Preston's independent spirit.
Preston briefly attended Biola University, where his father taught, but was reportedly asked to leave. He later earned a degree from Chapman University. He described difficulties communicating with Natalie while their mother was present, with Jill Harp reportedly monitoring their calls.
A Move to Nicaragua
After their father's death, Natalie and their mother moved to West Palm Beach, Florida, not far from Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence. Natalie took a role at the One America News Network before joining Trump's presidential campaign in 2022 and subsequently his administration. Preston, meanwhile, worked various jobs and found solace in Nicaragua, calling it the first place he felt at peace since his father's death. He has been volunteering with S. Brian Willson, helping edit his writings. Preston has expressed no desire to reconnect with his sister or mother, stating he cannot connect with their current mindset.