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When was Melania last seen with Trump? White House absence raises eyebrows amid Natalie Harp row

Speculation over Donald Trump and aide Natalie Harp intensifies as Melania Trump’s absence fuels rumors of a White House power struggle.

Published on: Aug 20, 2026, 02:57:15 IST
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Fanned by the Democrats, speculations around the relationship between Donald Trump and his personal secretary Natalie Harp have become the hottest gossip of Washington DC. Democrat Jon Ossoff's remarks kicked it off. The issue has now snowballed, with multiple reports citing White House sources and spinning tales around the POTUS, Harp, and the First Lady of the United States, Melania Trump.

Trump and Melania on stage at the conclusion of his speech during Salute to America, an Independence Day event honoring the nation's 250th anniversary (July 4) (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)
Trump and Melania on stage at the conclusion of his speech during Salute to America, an Independence Day event honoring the nation's 250th anniversary (July 4) (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

Even as social media speculate about who the White House leak is, the position of Melania Trump is sparking a lot of buzz. The New York Times initially reported that Melania was unhappy with speculation about Trump and Natalie Harp's relationship. The Daily Beast then reported that a "power struggle" is underway between Melania Trump and Natalie Harp over the latter's reported closeness to the 79-year-old president.

Also read: Natalie Harp's letter to Trump sparks buzz: 5 things to know, ‘You are all that matters to me’

Deep Dive

What sparked the speculation about Melania Trump and Natalie Harp's relationship?

Speculation began after comments from Democrat Jon Ossoff about Melania Trump's absence from public events and her reported unhappiness regarding Trump's closeness to aide Natalie Harp.

How long has Melania Trump been absent from public appearances?

Melania Trump has not been seen in public for over a month, with her last appearance alongside Donald Trump at the FIFA World Cup Final on July 19.

Why might Melania Trump refuse to appear in public with Natalie Harp present?

Melania Trump's absence is speculated to be linked to a 'power struggle' with Natalie Harp, as she reportedly would not appear with her husband if Harp is around, according to Trump's biographer, Michael Wolff.
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The internet is not taking Melania Trump's absence lightly. There is growing speculation that Melania's absence is linked to Trump's alleged closeness to Natalie Harp.

The Daily Beast report has further complicated matters for the White House. The report claims that Melania has refused to be seen in public because of the closeness that Harp shares with Trump.

The report also highlights comments made by Donald Trump's biographer, Michael Wolff. Melania and Wolff are engaged in a high-profile legal battle over her comments about the First Lady's alleged involvement in Jeffrey Epstein's social circle. It has ignited speculations further.

“Melania Trump has not been seen in the last few months! She’s been out of the spotlight and not being seen with Donald Trump! She must be relieved right now!” wrote one user.

“Trump had an absolute meltdown when asked about his mistress Natalie Harp. Melania hasn’t been seen in public in 48 days," added one.

“If we get another impromptu Melania press conference out of this it will all be worth it,” joked one.

"When I saw Donald Trump showing off the White House's new granite driveway my first thought was: where's Melania?" said one.

Another user joked: “I'm getting ready for shit to go down between Natalie Harp and Melania, and I need something to wash down the popcorn.”

Also read: Kristen Holmes husband and kids: All on CNN reporter's family berated by Trump over Natalie Harp question, ‘Be Quiet’

What Michael Wolff Said

“Melania, whose appearances with her husband were carefully negotiated and choreographed, would not show up if Harp was around,” Wolff wrote on her Substack newsletter, Howl. “Since Harp was always around, Melania never was—appearing with her husband only in the last week of the campaign.

“Other than at ceremonial occasions, or in a strictly official capacity, she has given up the role of wife,” Wolff said about Melania's absence. “Practically speaking, there is no room for her.”

 
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Shamik Banerjee

Shamik is a journalist covering the United States for Hindustan Times. He has more than four years of experience reporting on US politics, sports, and major breaking stories across fast-moving cycles. He previously worked at Times Now and Sportskeeda, building strong newsroom instincts and digital storytelling skills. At HT.com, he focuses on day-to-day coverage of US political developments while also handling high-impact stories that demand speed, accuracy, clarity, and context under pressure. Shamik has extensive experience covering NFL game days over the past two years, coordinating live updates, analysis, and explainers. He is particularly drawn to large news moments such as US elections and the Super Bowl, where he thrives at the news desk working alongside the team. He holds degrees in Media Studies from Jamia Millia Islamia and English Literature from Jadavpur University. Before entering journalism, he briefly worked in digital marketing and political consultancy roles. Currently a Senior Content Producer at HT Digital, he is driven by curiosity, discipline, and a constant desire to explore new and obscure topics. Outside work, he enjoys reading, films, sports, and learning continuously.

Stay updated with US News covering politics, crime, weather, local events, and sports highlights. Get the latest on Donald Trump and American politics along with Horoscope 2026.
Stay updated with US News covering politics, crime, weather, local events, and sports highlights. Get the latest on Donald Trump and American politics along with Horoscope 2026.
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