The charitable endeavors of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex provoke inquiries regarding political involvement and family dynamics.
The Archewell Foundation, established by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in 2020, has committed over $600,000 to various initiatives and organizations associated with the Democratic Party, according to public records analyzed by the _New York Post_.
This financial involvement encompasses significant contributions and the employment of political strategists, igniting conversations about the couple's political leanings.
Among these contributions, the Archewell Foundation allocated $146,500 in 2023 to Jiore Craig, an independent media strategist known for her efforts to combat disinformation.
Craig gained her reputation during her time at the Washington, D.C.-based research firm Greenberg, Quinlan, and Rosner, where she held the position of Senior Director of Digital Strategy from 2016 to 2021. Her participation in major political campaigns has made her a crucial player within Democratic strategies, especially in recent election cycles.
In addition to the funds directed towards Craig, the foundation contributed $25,000 to the Marcy Lab School in Brooklyn, where Craig joined the board in 2024, and she received $120,000 from Archewell in 2022. Additionally, $90,000 was granted to Markup News Inc., a New York-based nonprofit with connections to several influential Democratic donors.
The foundation's largest contribution, totaling $250,000, was made to the Women's Wellness Space in Pennsylvania, a newly founded charity initiated by Ashley Biden, designed to assist women affected by trauma.
Archewell also paid $155,050 to Herlihy Loughran, a consulting firm created by former aides of Buckingham Palace for strategic services.
The financial assistance provided to organizations affiliated with the Democratic Party has drawn criticism, particularly from Nile Gardiner, a fellow at the conservative Heritage Foundation, who has called for Congress to examine Archewell's donations.
Gardiner's remarks underline worries about the political ramifications of the Duke and Duchess holding royal titles while participating in charitable giving associated with political matters.
In light of the increasing scrutiny, a spokesperson for the Duke and Duchess has stated that they do not support any candidates in the upcoming 2024 presidential election, asserting that their philanthropic initiatives are aimed at making a substantial impact.
Speculation about Meghan Markle’s potential political ambitions persists, especially following her and Harry's discussions with Democratic leaders in New York in 2021, which coincided with their private conversations with California Governor Gavin Newsom.
Moreover, reactions from political figures, including former President
Donald Trump, have further complicated the situation.
Trump has openly criticized Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, branding Markle as a detrimental influence and implying that the couple faces their own personal difficulties.
This unfolding situation occurs during a time of apparent tension in Prince Harry’s relationship with his family, particularly following recent interactions between
Prince William and
Donald Trump.
Reports suggest that King Charles has maintained a friendly relationship with Trump since his presidency, further complicating the royal family's dynamics within the political sphere.