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Comedian Bill Maher Explains Why He’s Steering Clear of Jokes About Trump’s “Human Printer” Aide
Natalie Harp, President Donald Trump’s executive assistant, has recently become a focal point in media coverage after a secretive escape involving a plane switch following the NATO Summit in Turkey. Harp, 35, was among the select few who accompanied Trump on a covert flight out, leaving other officials behind on a decoy plane. This incident sparked criticism from Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff, who accused Trump of prioritizing personal comforts and travel with Harp over presidential responsibilities.
Known colloquially as Trump’s “human printer,” Harp earned her nickname during the 2024 campaign due to her habit of carrying a portable printer to produce physical copies of news articles and social media drafts for the former president. She has played a significant role in managing Trump’s social media presence and has been noted for her unwavering dedication.
On the August 21 episode of HBO’s Real Time, Bill Maher addressed the recent commentary around Harp and Trump. He also referenced a personal legal battle with political commentator Laura Loomer, who sued him for defamation over a joke implying an affair involving Trump. Maher won that case but acknowledged the toll such lawsuits can take.
Turning to Harp, Maher quipped, “Natalie is kind of Trump’s emotional support employee,” highlighting her constant presence and even her portable printer. However, he quickly shifted to defending her work ethic and loyalty.
“She seems incredibly devoted to her job, never takes a day off. Sometimes she works so hard she forgets to eat and sleep,” Maher said, adding that many Americans wish they had a millennial employee with such commitment.
Maher also shared background on Harp’s personal story, noting that she battled bone cancer in her twenties and credits Trump for expediting access to experimental treatments that she believes saved her life. Harp has publicly expressed admiration for Trump, notably during a 2019 Fox & Friends interview where she praised the Right to Try law, and again at the 2020 Republican National Convention. Before joining Trump’s staff in 2022, she worked as a far-right anchor at One America News Network.
Despite the light-hearted remarks, Maher indicated he intends to avoid making Harp a target of jokes, recognizing the complexity of her story and the criticism she faces. Public interest in Harp intensified further after The Daily Beast published letters she allegedly sent to Trump, including one expressing deep personal loyalty: “You are all that matters to me. I don’t want to ever let you down.”
As Harp remains a steadfast figure in Trump’s inner circle, her unique blend of personal history and professional devotion continues to draw both attention and debate.