How Donald Trump’s Return to the White House Could Impact Prince Harry and Meghan Markle
As the world anticipates Donald Trump’s initial actions following his recent re-election, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle may be among those most anxious about what lies ahead.
With Trump back in power, the couple faces renewed scrutiny, complicated by a history of tension with the former president and fresh questions about Harry’s immigration status.
Trump’s Public Criticisms of Harry and Meghan
During his recent campaign, Trump was vocal about his disapproval of Harry and Meghan, often criticizing their decisions and even hinting at potential consequences should he return to office.
Among his most provocative statements was a suggestion that he could seek to have Harry deported from the United States, a claim that raised widespread attention.
This sentiment echoes Trump’s past remarks; in 2020, the Sussexes appeared to encourage Americans to vote against “hate speech” in a video, which was widely interpreted as an endorsement of Trump’s opponent, Joe Biden.
In response, Trump expressed disdain, stating he was “no fan” of Meghan.
The Visa Controversy: A Potential Liability for Harry
More recently, Harry’s US visa status has come under legal scrutiny following admissions of past drug use in his memoir Spare. Harry openly described his experiences with marijuana, cocaine, and psychedelic mushrooms.
His candor sparked a lawsuit from the conservative think tank, the Heritage Foundation, which argued for the release of his immigration application to determine if he had disclosed his drug use.
Trump weighed in on the matter, criticizing the Biden administration for maintaining Harry’s privacy and accusing them of “protecting Harry.”
This case has since taken a complicated turn, with a judge ruling that Harry’s visa documents remain private, though the Heritage Foundation continues to press for their release, arguing that agency “bad faith” has compromised their appeal.
The outcome of this case could directly impact Harry’s residency in the U.S., particularly under Trump’s renewed administration, which may prioritize stricter immigration enforcement.
Speculations on Deportation and Public Statements
In a recent interview, Trump reiterated his stance on Harry’s immigration status, hinting that “appropriate action” could be taken if Harry failed to disclose his past drug use.
When pressed on what this action could entail, Trump’s tone was dismissive, leaving the possibility of deportation ambiguously open.
For the Sussexes, this could mean an uncertain future in California, where they have established a life since stepping down as senior royals.
A Backup Plan in Portugal?
Reports indicate that Harry and Meghan have prepared for the possibility of needing to leave the U.S. The couple is believed to have purchased a vacation property in Portugal, near the home of Harry’s cousin, Princess Eugenie, and her husband Jack Brooksbank.
This purchase could make them eligible for a Portuguese “Golden Visa,” providing visa-free access to the Schengen Area in the European Union.
This alternative would give the Sussexes an option to relocate to Europe if they face visa issues in the United States.
However, royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams suggested that Portugal is unlikely to become the couple’s permanent residence, citing that the property may be more of a retreat than a long-term home.
He also noted that while the Sussexes have remained relatively silent on U.S. politics during this election, they did encourage Americans to vote, stopping short of explicit endorsements.
The Long-Term Implications
Harry and Meghan’s residency in the United States now faces potential complications, with Trump’s re-election adding another layer of uncertainty.
Given Harry’s openness about his past, he may face heightened scrutiny under a Trump-led government focused on stricter immigration policies.
Whether they ultimately settle in Portugal or remain in California, the Sussexes are likely to face complex decisions as they navigate their future amid these renewed pressures.
