The White House's rapid response account on X, formerly Twitter, criticized journalist Aaron Rupar on Saturday for highlighting the presence of aide Natalie Harp on President Donald Trump's trip to Ireland. Rupar had posted a photograph of Harp, a White House aide reportedly in her 30s, attending a welcome event in Dublin.
"President Trump does, in fact, travel with staff," the White House account responded to Rupar's post. "Aaron, on the other hand, is a sick, deluded freak (in his 40s) who sits behind a keyboard and posts creepy things like this."
Rupar, who frequently shares video clips of Trump and administration officials, responded to the criticism with a post on X stating, "I know being in my 40s makes me too old for the president but I’m at peace with it."
Harp's inclusion on the trip, which Trump undertook without the first lady, had previously drawn attention. Trump had remarked that Melania Trump was present "in spirit." Harp's close relationship with the president was previously noted, with reports indicating she received a $45,000 gift during the holidays.
White House aide Natalie Harp (center) attends a welcome event for President Donald Trump at the U.S. ambassador's residence in Dublin on Saturday. Trump stopped in Dublin for a few hours before heading west to his Trump International Golf Links to attend the Irish Open.
The exchange underscores the White House's critical stance towards media coverage it deems unfavorable, with the rapid response account often engaging directly with journalists.