Meghan Markle news: A history of royals and U.S. elections

Meghan Markle has never been one to follow royal tradition. The minute she was romantically linked to Prince Harry, the news around Markle has always been about the traditions she’s broken. From her choice not to wear nude stockings with dresses, to her PDA with Harry at official events, Markle has never been one to follow the rules.

It came as no surprise when Meghan Markle made news again for voting in the U.S. Presidential election. At first, the news seems like no big deal, as Markle is an American citizen and therefore can legally vote. But no modern royal family member has voted in a U.S. Presidential Election.

Why royals don’t vote

Traditionally, all members of the royal family are meant to stay out of all political matters. Since Parliament and the royal family must work together regardless of their views, the royal family won’t even vote in the UK election, let alone any other international elections. 

Buckingham Palace officials won’t even comment on any political matters to ensure the royals remain impartial. When Prince Harry & Meghan Markle were commenting on the importance of the U.S. election, Buckingham Palace released a statement to the news clarifying the Sussex’s comments were personal as they are no longer “working members of the royal family”.

American royals 

Meghan Markle isn’t the only American to wed their way into the royal family over the years. Wallis Simpson famously married King Edward VIII after he abdicated the throne to be with her.

However, it’s unknown if Simpson ever voted in America before or after marrying into the House of Windsor. As mail-in voting was a lot more complicated back in the day than it is now, Simpson mainly lived overseas after becoming Duchess of Windsor, it’s unlikely Simpson cast a vote after becoming British royalty. Therefore, it’s more than likely Meghan Markle has made history with this election.

Making their voices heard

It’s unknown if Meghan Markle voted by mail or at her local polling place, but she has made it clear she planned on casting a vote in the election. Harry & Meghan have been using their platform to help speak out about key issues, so it’s no surprise they feel so strongly about voting. 

Since leaving Buckingham Palace, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have spoken with various news outlets about the importance of the 2020 U.S. Presidential election. In their Time100 series talks, Harry reminded everyone he cannot vote in the election due to his nationality but emphasized the election’s importance.

In a different ABC News special, Meghan Markle expressed her opinion on the complicated election. “Every four years, we’re told, ‘This is the most important election of our lifetime.’ But this one is. When we vote, our values are put into action, and our voices are heard.”

In relation to the election, Meghan Markle also sat down with political activist Gloria Steinem to discuss the gender issues Americans are facing. When discussing the importance of female voters, Markle said “People forget how hard women like you and so many others before you fought for us to just be where we are right now”.

Using their platform for good

This is far from the first time Prince Harry & Meghan have used their newfound independence to speak out on important issues. The couple made a statement about Black Lives Matter back in June, and have been photographed wearing masks in public.

By voting in this year’s election, Meghan Markle is sending a message to the royal couple’s family and the loyal fans of the royals. Harry & Meghan have been using their platform to bring awareness to causes essential to the couple, and voting is no different. 

Because Meghan Markle exercised her right to vote, Meghan is leading the news headlines once again, but this time in a positive light. Now, like the rest of us, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle await the news of who took home enough electoral college votes to win the election.