Meghan Markle has made her progressive political leanings known over the years.
From encouraging voter participation to advocating for women’s rights and social justice, the Duchess of Sussex hasn’t shied away from speaking out on key issues.
This has sparked ongoing speculation that Meghan could take the leap into the political sphere. But how probable is it that the Duchess pursues politics down the line?
Meghan Markle’s political career
On the one hand, Meghan has displayed a clear passion for activism and making her voice heard.
Her comments urging citizens to vote in the 2020 election – interpreted by some as anti-Trump – showed her eagerness to influence the political landscape.
Meghan also recently advocated for strengthened federal paid family leave in a letter to Congress signed “on behalf of my family, Archie and Lili and Harry.”
This revealed her desire to sway policy change on a national level.
According to royal expert Marlene Koenig, “She is taking baby steps – but steps nonetheless – to create a political role, albeit not as an elected official.”
Koenig speculated Meghan could take an appointed political position or use her platform to fundraise for causes and candidates she supports.
Others point to Meghan’s political activity being limited by her royal ties.
Although the Sussexes are no longer working royals, Meghan’s Duchess of Sussex title connects her to the British monarchy.
The royal family diligently remains politically neutral.
Royal writer Richard Fitzwilliams noted that the “royal family has to remain above the political fray” and it would be “completely contrary to how the [monarchy] functions” for Meghan to fully engage in politics. As such, her political actions will likely stay confined to activism rather than holding office.
On the other side, commentator Angela Levin believes Meghan has the confidence and ambition to enter politics, suggesting she could run for US president.
However, Levin feels Meghan lacks the proper experience.
“I think Meghan on her own would like to perhaps be the first female president of the United States,” Levin stated. She continued, “I think she’s a very political person and there are lots of signs that that is the way she might want to go.”
But Levin pointed out Meghan’s previous career as an actress is hardly preparation for the “absolutely unbelievable” scrutiny faced by politicians.
Levin advised that working “from the bottom up” within political institutions would better position Meghan for higher office.
An additional complication is Meghan and Harry’s financial reliance on their royal links through lucrative deals with Spotify and Netflix.
The Sussexes need to tread carefully to avoid reputational damage from any political missteps, according to celebrity brand expert Jeetendr Sehdev.
Sehdev explained, “Any kind of significant pivot into a frankly political position, particularly aligned with any particular party, could indeed threaten their brand positioning.”
While the Duchess of Sussex clearly wants to influence the political conversation, her ability to fully engage is likely restricted by her ongoing ties to the British royal family.
Direct moves into politics seem improbable as long as Meghan retains her royal title.
However, we can expect the Duchess to continue championing activism causes close to her heart.
