As political dynamics shift in the United States, growing speculation surrounds the future of Meghan Markle’s title as the Duchess of Sussex. The question being raised is whether the US government, under a new administration, could strip her of this title. As figures like Donald Trump prepare for a potential return to the White House, the once-celebrated royal couple now finds themselves facing an increasingly hostile political climate. For Meghan and Harry, the comfortable life they enjoy in California could be at risk.
Rumors are circulating that President Trump, who has been openly critical of the couple, may target Meghan’s royal title, which many believe was granted by the UK, a foreign power. This has fueled the debate over whether American citizens can hold foreign titles without consequences. The controversy has sparked heated discussions, with some speculating that the US government, under the authority of a leader who has frequently criticized Meghan and Harry, could revoke their status.
Political commentator Lee Cohen recently weighed in on this issue, suggesting that the Sussexes’ past actions, including their controversial departure from royal duties and ongoing disputes with the British royal family, could come back to haunt them. Cohen hinted that they may now face repercussions for what many perceive as poor decisions and bad judgment.
So, what’s the legal basis for this claim? The US Constitution is often cited in viral social media posts, with some referencing a passage that allegedly prohibits American citizens from holding foreign titles, such as Meghan’s title as the Duchess of Sussex. This provision was proposed in 1810 during a time of tense relations between the United States and the United Kingdom, but it was never ratified. The amendment, which aimed to prevent US citizens from being influenced by foreign royalty, failed to gain the necessary support across the states. Despite this, the idea continues to linger in certain political circles, casting doubt on Meghan’s status as an American citizen.
DC lawyer John Witherspoon has provided a thorough legal breakdown, explaining that while the 1810 proposal remains in the Constitution, it never became law. A US citizen can inherit a title from abroad and use it, provided it does not involve pledging allegiance to a foreign power. This clarification means that Meghan could legally retain her title without fear of losing her US citizenship, as long as she doesn’t swear loyalty to the UK or any other foreign nation.
However, the rumors continue to swirl, fueled by the prospect of Trump’s return to the White House. During his first presidency, Trump was no fan of the Sussexes and frequently criticized Harry’s decision to step away from royal duties. Trump even suggested that Harry was being manipulated, echoing the sentiments of many critics who believe the couple has damaged their relationship with both the royal family and the British monarchy. With Trump’s administration potentially revisiting issues like this, some wonder whether Meghan’s title could become a target in a new era of political scrutiny.
In addition to his disdain for the couple, Trump has made it clear that he has no sympathy for the financial burden the Sussexes have placed on US taxpayers. He has publicly stated that the US will not cover their security costs, insisting that Meghan and Harry should foot the bill themselves. As tensions between the Sussexes and the US government continue to escalate, it’s not difficult to imagine a scenario where Trump or others in his camp may turn their attention to Meghan’s royal title.