The White House on Monday sharply criticized CNN reporter Kristen Holmes after she questioned President Donald Trump about his relationship with executive assistant Natalie Harp.
The exchange marked the latest confrontation between the Trump administration and a female journalist. Meanwhile, Trump also called Holmes “very disrespectful” during the Oval Office event.
White House Targets CNN Journalist
Holmes raised the issue after Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff criticized Trump and Harp during a campaign speech. The White House Rapid Response team then accused Holmes of asking a “disgusting and inhumane question.”
Furthermore, the official account said Holmes used an event honoring a teenage lifeguard to target a Trump staff member.
Trump later interrupted Holmes as she attempted to ask another question about North Korea. He called her loud and accused her of spreading “fake news.”
CNN strongly defended Holmes and described the White House attacks as beneath the office. The network said it firmly supported its reporter and rejected the criticism.
Natalie Harp Draws Fresh Attention
Harp has attracted growing attention because of her close presence around Trump. She reportedly accompanied him during a secret Air Force One swap in July.
Previously, Harp worked as a television news personality. Trump’s critics have also focused on her influence within his inner circle.
However, Trump dismissed Ossoff’s criticism and defended his plans for a $400 million White House ballroom. He did not directly address Harp.
Meanwhile, White House Communications Director Steven Cheung separately attacked Ossoff over his comments.
The dispute highlighted the increasingly hostile relationship between the Trump administration and sections of the US media.
Meta description: White House attacks CNN reporter Kristen Holmes after she questioned Donald Trump about his relationship with executive assistant Natalie Harp.
