Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are being cautioned against getting involved in the polarized political landscape of the upcoming White House race between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. Former Republican Congressman Charlie Dent recently spoke to GB News, emphasizing that the influence of endorsements from high-profile celebrities like the Sussexes may not have the desired effect and could even backfire.
Dent, who served in the House of Representatives from 2005 to 2018, argued that endorsements often carry less weight than expected and can sometimes alienate more people than they attract. He highlighted that in a deeply divided country, taking a political stance could harm the public image of those involved. Dent suggested that it might be wise for Meghan and Harry to avoid endorsing any candidate in such a contentious election.
The former Congressman also pointed out that, despite their visibility, the political opinions of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are not a significant concern for most Americans. He recalled the tradition of the British royal family remaining neutral in political matters, suggesting that Meghan and Harry should consider maintaining a similar stance to avoid diminishing their appeal.
Meghan Markle has previously been vocal about her political views, notably encouraging Americans to vote in the 2022 Midterm Elections, particularly on issues such as women’s reproductive rights. There have even been speculations about her potential political ambitions in the United States. However, Dent advises caution, pointing out that the couple’s popularity in the UK might already be on shaky ground, and further political involvement in the US could exacerbate this.
The discussion also touched on the broader theme of celebrity endorsements in politics. While some celebrities, like Tesla CEO Elon Musk, have chosen to publicly endorse Trump, such actions have their own risks. For instance, Musk’s support for Trump could potentially harm his business interests, especially given Trump’s stance on electric vehicles. This example serves as a cautionary tale for any public figure considering a political endorsement, reminding them that their actions might not align with their business or public interests.
Ultimately, Dent’s advice to Meghan and Harry is clear: it may be best for them to stay out of the political fray. With a polarizing election on the horizon, keeping a low profile could protect their brand and avoid any unintended consequences in both the UK and the US.