Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Face Backlash for Controversial Dive into US Politics
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have sparked controversy once again, this time for encouraging people to register to vote in the upcoming U.S. presidential election. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, now residing in California, released a public statement urging civic engagement, but their involvement in American politics has drawn criticism, with some claiming they have crossed a line.
As the 2024 United States presidential election approaches, with candidates like Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump vying for leadership, Harry and Meghan took the opportunity to advocate for voter registration. Their statement, issued via the Archewell Foundation on National Voter Registration Day, emphasized the importance of voting as a tool for shaping communities and the future of the country.
“Voting is not just a right; it’s a fundamental way to influence the fate of our communities,” their statement read. “At The Archewell Foundation, we recognize that civic engagement, no matter one’s political party, is at the heart of a more just and equitable world.”
The couple’s statement continued: “By participating in initiatives like this, we aim to amplify the message that every voice matters. Together, let’s make sure every eligible voter is informed and empowered to participate in shaping America’s future.”
However, not everyone welcomed their involvement. Royal commentator Rupert Bell voiced his disapproval during an interview with Talk TV, criticizing the Duke and Duchess for engaging in U.S. politics. “They are the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, and the last I looked, there aren’t any royal titles in America,” Bell remarked, pointing out the potential issues with a British royal figure advocating in an American election.
Bell went on to suggest that while Meghan may view herself as a political advocate, her status as a Duchess could complicate her involvement in the U.S. political system. “For Meghan, she probably wants to see herself as a political advocate, but as the Duchess of Sussex, she can’t expect to have status in the American political system—that’s not the way they operate,” he added.
Harry and Meghan’s decision to use their platform to encourage voting has reignited debates about the role they should play in public life. Since stepping back from their royal duties in 2020, the couple has become more outspoken on social and political issues, particularly in the U.S., where they now reside. While they have received praise for their advocacy work on topics like mental health and racial equality, their involvement in American politics continues to be met with mixed reactions.
With the 2024 election just around the corner, the Sussexes’ call for civic engagement may further blur the lines between their royal background and their newfound roles as public figures in the U.S.