Seeking to establish their brand post-"Megxit," the couple engaged in various efforts to connect with politicians, with Meghan publicly advocating for Paid Family Leave to lawmakers on Capitol Hill.
Their initiatives to gain political influence in the U.S. included inviting President Joe Biden to attend Harry's Invictus Games, as they saw the Bidens as potential allies in their American endeavors.
However, both invitations were denied, and concerns arose that their actions might offend the royal family. The Sussexes' spokesperson, Miranda Barbeau, who previously worked on President Obama's re-election campaign, and consultant Katie McCormick Levithol, a former spokesperson for Michelle Obama, were hired to bolster their political connections.
One notable incident involved a request for Harry and Meghan to ride on Air Force One with President Biden after Queen Elizabeth's funeral. Nonetheless, the White House declined the request, fearing it could cause commotion. The couple's attempts to align themselves politically in America were viewed as part of a larger campaign during their transition to life in California.
The tension between Harry and Meghan and the royal family escalated following their explosive tell-all interview with Oprah Winfrey and Prince Harry's subsequent memoir. The couple's actions during their UK visit for charity engagements and the Queen's passing in September further strained relations with the British monarchy.
While Buckingham Palace held a pre-funeral reception for working members of the royal family, Harry and Meghan were notably left off the guest list, leaving them baffled. In the midst of this, their staff reached out to the White House, hoping for a grand photo op aboard Air Force One. However, this too was denied, leaving Meghan disappointed in missing the opportunity to wave alongside the President and First Lady of the United States.
