Harry and Meghan Advocate Voter Participation and Neutrality Ahead of US Presidential Election
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex plan to remain neutral in the upcoming US presidential election, urging Americans to participate by voting. They marked National Voter Registration Day by encouraging their team to write letters to unregistered voters, emphasizing that civic engagement is essential for a more just society. Their statement reinforces the importance of every voice in shaping the future, while stopping short of endorsing any candidate.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have announced their intention to maintain a neutral stance in the upcoming US presidential election while encouraging citizens to exercise their voting rights. Marking National Voter Registration Day, they engaged their Archewell team in efforts to boost voter participation.
Archewell's Engagement on National Voter Registration Day
On Tuesday, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex highlighted National Voter Registration Day by mobilizing their Archewell team to partake in a letter-writing initiative aimed at unregistered voters. Staff members dispatched letters urging individuals to register and make their voices heard in the approaching presidential election. The message conveyed the importance of voting as a fundamental right and a means of shaping community futures, emphasizing, "Voting is not just a right; it's a fundamental way to influence the fate of our communities."
Civic Engagement and the Importance of Every Voice
The Archewell Foundation expressed its commitment to civic engagement across all political affiliations, stating, "By participating in initiatives like this, we aim to amplify the message that every voice matters." The couple encouraged the public to join their efforts by volunteering to write letters to unregistered voters, emphasizing the collective responsibility to ensure that all eligible voters are informed and ready to participate in the electoral process.
Response to Criticism and Past Controversies
This initiative comes in the wake of previous criticism directed at the Sussexes for perceived political endorsements during the last presidential election. In a video filmed from their home in Montecito, Prince Harry and Meghan addressed their stance on the election, with Harry urging voters to "reject hate speech" and Meghan labeling the 2020 race as "the most important election of our lifetime." Their comments led some to believe they were backing Joe Biden, creating controversy around their engagement in US politics.
Maintaining Neutrality Ahead of the 2024 Election
As election day approaches on November 5, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are anticipated to remain politically neutral and will not endorse any candidates formally, according to reports. Unlike previous statements made from their private office, the couple's most recent communications have been disseminated through the Archewell Foundation, reflecting their focus on civic participation rather than direct political engagement.
