Express.co.uk readers were asked about their thoughts on a statement made by the Sussexes urging people to vote in the upcoming US election.
Harry and Meghan did cross the line when it came to their political statement according to readers. (Image: Getty)
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle did cross the line when urging people to vote in the US election in a recent statement, according to a new poll.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex issued a rare statement on the upcoming US election, telling people to exercise their right to vote. The couple published the statement via their Archewell Foundation, but did not publicly endorse either Donald Trump or Kamala Harris.
The statement read: “Voting is not just a right; it’s a fundamental way to influence the fate of our communities. At The Archewell Foundation, we recognize that civic engagement, no matter one’s political party, is at the heart of a more just and equitable world.
“By participating in initiatives like this, we aim to amplify the message that every voice matters. Together, let’s make sure every eligible voter is informed and empowered to participate in shaping America’s future.”
Express.co.uk asked readers if they thought that the pair had overstepped the mark by issuing the plea – and the results overwhelmingly were that they did.
It was a rare statement for royals to issue. (Image: Getty)
The question asked was ‘Have Prince Harry and Meghan Markle crossed a line in American politics?’ There was a conclusive vote for ‘Yes’ with 2,960 readers thinking that they did. Only 193 thought ‘No’ they did not and 55 readers clicked ‘Don’t know’ on the online poll.
The Sussexes have received backlash for their statement, with some critics calling on them to stay out of politics. Some social media users have criticised the statement, telling the pair to stay out of US politics.
X user MissDivakitty09 said: “Harry & Meghan have no business being involved with American politics.”
ButtersRog65689 wrote: “Go away Harry and Meghan. And stay out if [sic] us politics.”
The Sussexes were also slammed by Republicans with Greg Swenso – a London-based financier and Chairman of Republicans Overseas UK – telling MailOnline: “They can’t help themselves. By encouraging people to vote they are essentially ballot harvesting for Kamala.
“You don’t have to say it. Like the man sitting in his car, alone, with a Covid mask on – you don’t need a bumper sticker, we know who you voted for”.
However, the couple are reportedly remaining publicly neutral when it comes to the November 2024 US election, according to reports in the Telegraph. Neither Harry or Meghan are set to endorse a candidate.
In 2020, Meghan praised Kamala Harris, saying how “excited” she was to see a woman of colour becoming Vice President.
As working members of the Royal Family, the couple were required to stay politically neutral – but since they stepped down in 2020, they are no longer bound by that rule.