Some neighbors describe her as "High and Mighty," and their grievances came to light in an interview with the Daily Express. One neighbor expressed, "We can't wait for her to go," adding that the couple's attitude has left the entire neighborhood unsettled.
The controversy was further fueled when an individual named Kimberly posted a photo of a list of peculiar rules displayed on the door of a grand mansion, purportedly set by Meghan Markle. In her post, she remarked, "These are the rules set by The Duchess of Sussex.
I just moved here, but this shocked me so much that I had to post it." The rules detailed a series of restrictions, including forbidding locals from engaging in conversation with the Royal couple, petting their dogs, or even sending them notes.
The list of demands, which some residents found excessively stringent, included instructions such as refraining from approaching or initiating conversation with the Royal couple unless they initiated it first. It also discouraged locals from interacting with their dogs, offering to walk them, or attempting to see their children, Archie and "Little Bit." Moreover, the list explicitly prohibited posting anything through the letterbox of their Montecito mansion.
The post sparked a brief but intense online reaction before being swiftly deleted after just 30 minutes. Nevertheless, the contents of the list did not escape the attention of Royal enthusiasts.
In an exclusive interview with local neighbors, outrage over Meghan Markle's lifestyle was palpable. Complaints ranged from the couple's dogs defecating in the area to Meghan's perceived arrogance with her extensive set of rules. Neighbors even lodged a formal complaint with the authorities.
Furthermore, there is a perception among some neighbors that Meghan may be exercising undue influence over her husband, Prince Harry. As one neighbor put it, "I think she has more influence on Harry than he does on her." This sentiment is contributing to growing public disapproval of Meghan, who has undergone a noticeable transformation from a second-rate TV actress to a Duchess known for her high-maintenance attitude.
Neighbors have also noted a strained relationship between Meghan and Kate, the wife of Prince William, attributing it to Meghan's apparent efforts to outshine Kate. A neighbor revealed an attempt at extending a warm welcome to the Sussexes when they first moved in by offering films about the history of the exclusive California enclave. However, Meghan and Harry reportedly showed little interest.
Meghan and Harry reside in an impressive £11.5 million mansion in Montecito, Santa Barbara, California, having made the move in June 2020 shortly after stepping down as senior working Royals. The property boasts numerous amenities, including a tennis court, an outdoor swimming pool, and a whopping 16 bedrooms.
Notably, recent U.S. polling data suggests that Meghan Markle is viewed negatively by a majority of Americans, with 33% disapproving of her and only 31% expressing approval, resulting in a net approval rating of -2. This rating marks an eight-point drop since the last poll conducted by Newsweek in June. It's worth mentioning that the couple also ranked low on the list of individuals people would want to chat with over the garden fence in the same survey.
In summary, Meghan Markle's presence in Montecito has been marred by controversy, and her rule list, along with perceived attitudes, has sparked discontent among neighbors and a noticeable decline in public opinion.
