President Donald Trump addressed reporters about First Lady Melania Trump's absence during his second day of a state visit in Ireland, stating that she was with him 'in spirit.' When asked about her whereabouts, Trump said, 'My wife is here in spirit. She's watching right now.'
Trump recounted a conversation with Melania about joining him on the trip, saying, 'She said, "Say hello," because she was very friendly with these two people. I said, "Well, why don't you come with me?" She said, "Well, it's a seven-hour trip. Maybe I'm not that friendly."' He added, 'I said, "Put on a Make America Great Again hat and come on. Let's go." But, uh, she sends her regards.'
Accompanied by 'human printer' Natalie Harp
Instead of the First Lady, Trump was accompanied by Natalie Harp, a 35-year-old close aide nicknamed the 'human printer' for the volume of articles she prints for the President to read. Harp first drew Trump's attention in 2019 when she shared her story of battling bone cancer. In 2022, after working as a far-right news anchor, she entered his inner circle.
Harp's brother, Parker, told the Daily Mail, 'I don't understand why my sister, or anyone, could want to work for Trump. Trump is like everything that my mom taught us to respect. I think that's where her infatuation with Trump comes from, honestly.' She reportedly left a personal note for the President in a 'personal space,' reading, 'You are all that matters to me.'
Harp's growing role in Trump's inner circle
Last month, Harp stood by Trump's side during the transfer of soldiers killed in the Middle East, a role typically reserved for the First Lady. She is also believed to be responsible for Trump's Truth Social posts. Harp has repeatedly said Trump 'saved her life' by allowing experimental treatments during her cancer battle.
The President's remarks come amid ongoing public interest in Melania Trump's public appearances and her role in the administration. Trump's comments about her absence were made in a lighthearted tone, but they highlight the First Lady's limited presence on the international stage during this trip.
Trump's visit to Ireland continues, with no further public statements about Melania's schedule or potential future appearances alongside him.
