With Donald Trump’s recent election win, speculation is growing over how a second term might impact Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s future in the United States. Given Trump’s previous comments on Harry’s admitted drug use in his memoir Spare, some royal watchers believe this development could complicate the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s situation in California.
During his campaign, Trump addressed Prince Harry’s past admissions and hinted that he would not show leniency if it turned out Harry misrepresented his history on his visa application. When asked by the Daily Express about potentially intervening in Harry’s visa status, Trump replied, “I wouldn’t protect him. He betrayed the Queen. That’s unforgivable. He would be on his own if it was down to me.” Trump also suggested possible deportation if any discrepancies in Harry’s immigration records were found.
In a discussion with Nigel Farage on GB News, Trump indicated the possibility of action against Harry: “If they know something about the drugs, and if he lied, they’ll have to take appropriate action.” Farage asked if this could mean Harry might have to leave the US. Trump responded, “You would have thought they would have known this a long time ago.”
However, former royal butler Grant Harrold doesn’t think Trump’s election will directly affect where Harry and Meghan choose to live. Harrold shared with Slingo, “I don’t think Trump getting elected would affect where Meghan or Harry live… It will be down to personal reasons if they do [relocate]. They may choose to be closer to the royal family in Europe.”
Nonetheless, some reports suggest that the Sussexes are making contingency plans in case Trump takes office again. An insider told Daily Express UK, “The Sussexes are worried over the prospect of Trump becoming president again — and making good on his vow to potentially force Prince Harry out of America.” The couple reportedly has backup plans that could involve relocating with their children, Archie and Lilibet, if necessary.
While a conservative group, the Heritage Foundation, previously attempted to uncover Harry’s immigration records, a U.S. judge dismissed the case, leaving Harry’s visa status private for now.