Harry and Meghan Firmly Align with Democrats Amid a Politically Divided America, Says Royal Commentator
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been urged to reconsider their Hollywood-focused money-making approach, as recent political shifts in the U.S. may impact their ability to maintain their brand and income. In a recent piece for News.com.au, royal commentator Daniela Elser shared her insights, suggesting that the couple’s political alignment and brand image may face challenges in an increasingly divided America.
Elser began by pointing out that Harry and Meghan’s values align with progressive issues, such as climate change and gender equality, which position them on the left of the political spectrum. She noted, “In the increasingly politically riven United States, Harry and Meghan quite obviously sit on the left, firmly in the Democrat camp.”
However, Elser argued that recent political shifts suggest that issues central to the Sussexes’ brand may be losing appeal among large segments of the U.S. population, who are prioritizing economic concerns over progressive causes. In her piece, Elser emphasized, “The causes they espouse and the work they are doing, such as on climate change and gender equality, are the very issues that hundreds of millions of Americans have essentially just declared less important than the price of eggs and their resentment at dropdown menus offering more than the choice of two pronouns.”
She raised concerns about how the Sussexes’ perceived “woke” brand might impact their income-generating opportunities in a politically polarized environment. According to Elser, this challenge is particularly significant for Harry and Meghan as they navigate their roles as public figures in a profit-driven industry. “The Duke and Duchess, like all of us, need gainful employment, and for that, they need to be bankable commodities who can attract and hold the attention of big business,” Elser noted.
Given their need to remain relevant and financially viable, she questioned whether the Sussexes can sustain their brand as the U.S. undergoes political shifts, especially if Donald Trump’s influence grows. Still, Elser acknowledged a key difference between the Sussexes and other progressive-leaning Americans. Unlike many, Harry and Meghan have the privilege of options, should the political climate become more challenging for their brand.
Elser pointed out that as the recent owners of a house in Portugal, they have “options and can always escape” if they choose to step away from the U.S. This flexibility, Elser suggested, offers Harry and Meghan an advantage, allowing them to pivot geographically if needed. However, she hinted that this backup plan might be an acknowledgment of the challenges they face in maintaining their brand in the U.S. market.
The commentary highlights the complexities the Sussexes may encounter as they pursue business and advocacy goals in Hollywood. Their values and projects, aligned with progressive causes, may encounter resistance within a shifting American political landscape. Nevertheless, their international reach and ability to relocate provide a unique position to navigate these challenges.
Ultimately, Elser’s analysis presents an important consideration for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex as they assess their future in the U.S. and their prospects as influential figures in Hollywood. While their brand is firmly rooted in progressive causes, adapting to changing public sentiment will be key to their continued success.