The Daily Mail reported that Meghan had been working hard to be considered a potential candidate for the seat, which would be temporarily filled by California Governor Gavin Newsom until Feinstein's term concludes in January 2025.
However, Meghan's chances of becoming a senator were considered slim, as she was seen as a long shot in the world of US politics. Nonetheless, in today's unpredictable political landscape, nothing is entirely out of the realm of possibility. A major Democratic donor close to Newsom even acknowledged that Meghan had been networking with senior Democrats and had her sights set on the US Presidency as an ultimate goal.
Ultimately, Gavin Newsom decided against choosing Meghan Markle and instead opted for another candidate. Reports suggested that Newsom had promised Senator Feinstein that he would appoint a black woman to the seat, which meant he needed to find a woman of color who could serve for the next 13 months and who wouldn't run against seasoned politicians already vying for the position.
In the meantime, several media outlets have suggested that Oprah Winfrey's name has been floated as a potential contender for the role. She is one of five names that experts have considered as top contenders for Newsom's choice, alongside Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, State Controller Maria Cohen, San Francisco Mayor London Breed, and California Secretary of State Shirley Weber. Notably, Meghan Markle's name did not make it onto this list.
Oprah Winfrey, with her enduring popularity, particularly among Elder Millennials who remember her as a fixture in their after-school TV lineup, brings a diverse range of experiences and accomplishments to the table. She is not only a renowned television icon but also a producer, actress, and philanthropist. Oprah was the first Black American woman to own her own production company and has made significant contributions to child protection advocacy and support for education and social causes.
While Meghan's background and self-identification as a Caucasian with claims of multiracial heritage sparked debate, Oprah Winfrey's stature and influence extend well beyond the realm of politics. It remains to be seen whom Governor Newsom will ultimately select for the senatorial seat, but Oprah Winfrey is among the names being considered.
