Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's residency in the United States has become a hot topic following Donald Trump's presidential election win. Trump has openly criticized the Duke of Sussex, raising questions about Harry's immigration status due to his past drug use revealed in his memoir, Spare.
While some speculate deportation might be on the cards, others argue it's an unlikely move for Trump.
Trump's Stance on Prince Harry and Immigration
During his campaign, Trump criticized the Biden administration for allegedly being too lenient with Harry, pointing to his admission of using drugs like cocaine, cannabis, and magic mushrooms. U.S. immigration laws have strict rules about prior drug use, and failing to disclose such history can lead to visa denial or even deportation.
Speaking to Nigel Farage on GB News, Trump commented, "We'll have to see if they know something about the drugs, and if he lied, they'll have to take appropriate action." However, when asked directly if deportation was a possibility, Trump's response was vague, stating, "You just have to tell me."
This isn't the first time Trump has expressed disapproval of the Sussexes. Back in 2020, when Harry and Meghan stepped back from royal duties, Trump bluntly said, "I wouldn't protect him. He betrayed the Queen. That's unforgivable."
A Divided Public Opinion
The public has mixed opinions about whether Trump will act on his remarks. A Mirror poll revealed that 58% of respondents believe deportation is a real possibility. Some commenters on social media shared strong opinions, with one stating, "It would be fitting if Harry was deported for lying on his visa application."
Others believe Trump would refrain from such a drastic measure, citing the potential impact on U.S.-U.K. relations. "Trump wants an honorary knighthood," one reader speculated, "He won't risk upsetting the Royal Family."
The Role of the Heritage Foundation
Adding fuel to the fire, The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, is pressuring for the release of Harry's visa records. They argue that transparency is needed, given his public admissions about drug use. Nile Gardiner, a representative of the Foundation, said, "It's in the best interests of the American people to scrutinize Harry's application."
Whether Trump will act remains to be seen. Deporting a high-profile figure like Harry could have diplomatic repercussions, something even Trump might prefer to avoid. For now, the Sussexes' future in America hangs in the balance as speculation continues.