Donald Trump’s election win could bring new challenges for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, as political analysts suggest the former president’s administration may complicate the couple’s life in the U.S. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who have established a home in California since stepping back from royal duties, have maintained a complex relationship with U.S. political circles — one that Trump’s win may further strain.
Sources close to the couple told The Mirror that Trump’s return to the White House could negatively impact their future plans, especially given Trump’s past criticisms of the royal pair. During his first term, Trump did not hold back on expressing disapproval of Meghan, calling her “nasty” after she spoke out against him in the 2016 presidential election. In 2020, when Prince Harry and Meghan encouraged Americans to vote, many interpreted it as a subtle endorsement of Trump’s opponent. Trump responded publicly, wishing Harry “luck” with his marriage and noting, “He’s going to need it.”
The couple’s vocal support for causes related to climate change, social justice, and other progressive movements may now clash with Trump’s administration’s policy directions. Trump has historically pushed back on environmental regulations and taken a conservative approach to social issues, which could place the Sussexes’ activism under renewed scrutiny. Meghan and Harry’s Archewell Foundation, which champions similar causes, may also find it challenging to align their work with the policies of a Trump-led administration.
Political commentator Wendy Stein pointed out that Meghan, in particular, may face difficulties in her adopted country. “As a politically vocal former royal, Meghan is in a unique position. Trump’s victory could mean she faces pushback from an administration that doesn’t see eye-to-eye with her advocacy,” Stein explained. She also noted that the royal couple’s increasing involvement in U.S. philanthropy might attract more scrutiny, especially if they continue advocating for issues Trump’s administration does not prioritize.
Critics of the couple have suggested that a Trump administration might also impact their security arrangements. Prince Harry and Meghan previously raised concerns about the cost and security of their California home. While U.S. taxpayer funding has not been part of their security detail, a shifting political climate could influence the attention and resources available to high-profile figures such as the Sussexes. Trump has also spoken against “special treatment” for international celebrities, a sentiment some believe might lead to stricter policies for high-profile expatriates.
Despite potential challenges, the Sussexes’ supporters argue that the couple will likely remain steadfast in their public service efforts. Meghan and Harry’s decision to become financially independent and their move to the U.S. marked a significant change in their lives, one that some say will withstand political shifts.
As Trump’s administration prepares to take charge, the royal couple may have to navigate new complexities in their American journey. Observers are closely watching to see how Prince Harry and Meghan respond to these changing dynamics and whether their advocacy will shift under the political climate.