WASHINGTON, United States: Trump cash gifts of USD 45,000 each went to three White House aides, while another received USD 20,000, according to financial disclosures released by the administration.
Executive assistant Natalie Harp, communications adviser Margo Martin and deputy director of Oval Office operations Chamberlain Harris each disclosed a USD 45,000 “Cash Gift for Holidays” from President Donald Trump.
The disclosures show that Walt Nauta, director of Oval Office operations, received a USD 20,000 cash gift.
The payments have drawn ethics scrutiny because federal rules restrict government employees from receiving certain forms of compensation beyond their salaries. The White House said the gifts complied with applicable legal and ethical requirements.
Read: Melania Trump, Natalie Harp claims draw scrutiny in Washington
White House spokesman Davis Ingle said Trump has a longstanding practice of giving Christmas gifts to employees and others in his circle. He said the payments were unrelated to the aides’ official government duties.
Harp and Nauta are among aides who have regular access to the president. Harp also helps manage Trump’s Truth Social account and assists with drafting social media statements, according to a person familiar with her role.
Nauta previously faced federal accusations over classified documents Trump took after his first presidential term. He pleaded not guilty, and the case was later dropped after Trump returned to office.
