Governor Gavin Newsom of California, a Democrat, selected Laphonza Butler, a prominent Democratic strategist and the president of the influential pro-abortion rights group EMILY's List, to fill the late Senator Dianne Feinstein's seat. This appointment fulfilled Newsom's commitment to appoint a black woman to the Senate seat if it became vacant.
While there were initial speculations in Hollywood about Meghan Markle potentially replacing Feinstein, Governor Newsom ultimately chose Butler. This decision stemmed from a unique circumstance following Feinstein's passing, wherein Newsom had the discretion to appoint a replacement until the next election in November 2024. Rather than opting for Markle, he selected Butler, who has a track record of supporting pro-choice candidates nationwide.
Despite being overlooked for the California Senator's seat, Meghan Markle's team continues to maintain a website at senatormarkle.com. It's worth noting that Meghan has been operating this website for the past 13 months, where she has been selling various items, including clothing, tote bags, and mugs, featuring the phrase "Senator Markle California, Queen of Hearts, Duchess of Success."
However, it's important to recognize that 13 months may not provide an adequate timeframe to mount a substantial political campaign, especially when several other candidates are actively campaigning for the position. Furthermore, Meghan's financial resources may not be sufficient for a successful political bid.
Meghan's approach seemed to involve a desire for the seat to be offered to her without having to engage in the rigorous work and direct interactions with constituents that come with it. Some critics have speculated that she might choose to maintain the website and claim discrimination or victimhood, potentially seeking backing and funding from influential figures in California politics.
However, this approach may face challenges, as Meghan's eligibility for a title is limited, and titles do not hold the same legal significance in the United States as they do in the United Kingdom.
Ultimately, Meghan's association with titles is primarily a courtesy, and any notion of her giving up titles is legally complex and not applicable under U.S. law. Furthermore, titles do not appear on U.S. ballots or driver's licenses, making the issue of titles largely symbolic in the American political landscape.
