Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's financial activities through their Archewell Foundation have ignited a debate regarding their influence in American politics.
The New York Post reported that the foundation has directed considerable funds to groups and individuals occasionally linked to the Democratic Party, raising questions about the couple's political engagement given their British royal connections.
Public records have revealed that Meghan and Harry have allocated significant amounts through their charity to support various Democratic-aligned causes.
This includes contributions to individuals known for their ties to the Democratic Party, fueling speculation about the couple's political stance.
In 2023, Archewell Foundation spent $146,500 on Jiore Craig, an expert on countering disinformation and a media strategist with a history of managing digital strategies for elections. Craig's association with the political consulting firm Greenberg, Quinlan and Rosner further connects her to the Democratic realm.
The donations extend beyond Craig. In 2022, Archewell granted her an additional $120,000, reflecting the foundation's ongoing financial commitment. Meanwhile, in 2024, Archewell bestowed $25,000 upon the Marcy Lab School situated in Brooklyn, amplifying its charitable outreach.
A generous $250,000 donation was also recorded in favor of the Women’s Wellness Space, a charity founded by Ashley Biden.
This organization endeavors to support women who have experienced trauma, serving as a focal point of Archewell's philanthropic initiatives.
Moreover, payment records indicate that the charity provided $90,000 to Markup News Inc. This organization is associated with influential figures like Craigslist founder Craig Newmark and George Soros’ Open Society Foundations, further intertwining Archewell's donations with notable Democratic-affiliated entities.
In addition to these expenditures, Archewell Foundation allocated $155,050 to Herlihy Loughran, a firm managed by former Buckingham Palace aides.
The implication of involving former royal aides adds an intriguing dimension to the discussion about Harry and Meghan's potential political leanings.
Although the couple has not officially supported any electoral candidate, their interactions and donations have provoked speculation about their political inclination. In 2021, they were reported to have met with prominent Democrats such as Governor Kathy Hochul and Bill DeBlasio. They also conducted a private meeting with California Governor Gavin Newsom.
These associations have prompted concerns and sparked dialogue regarding the honorary couple's disregard for the monarchy's practice of political neutrality. Historically, British royalty abstains from overt endorsements of political figures or parties.
Critics have been vocal about the couple's financial moves, arguing that their royal status should prevent them from engaging in politically charged activities.
Nile Gardiner expressed this sentiment, stating that as title holders, Harry and Meghan's involvement in political matters is "actually outrageous."
However, a representative for the Duke and Duchess dismissed these accusations, emphasizing that none of their activities equate to a formal endorsement of any political contender in recent elections. They asserted that attributing unworthy motives to their donations is profoundly "misguided at best."
Contrary to the criticisms, Meghan and Harry maintain the assertiveness to chart benevolent paths using their platform.
Their spokesperson highlighted that donations aimed at nonpartisan causes, such as Ashley Biden's women-focused nonprofit, exemplify their true intentions.
Despite the symbolic relevance of their royal status, the Duke and Duchess seem committed to leveraging their influence for philanthropic purposes. Their donations underscore a concerted decision to engage in ameliorating social causes, irrespective of the evolving political environment.
