Prince Harry and Meghan's latest move proves they have 'no regard of royal rules' - expert

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's decision to  wade into politics and release a statement regarding the US election showed they disregard "royal guidelines and customs", staying focused on their global brand instead, a PR expert has claimed.

The Duke and Duchess issued a statement through their Archewell Foundation's website earlier this week and urged people to vote in the US elections this November.

Archwell's message read: "Voting is not just a right; it’s a fundamental way to influence the fate of our communities. At The Archewell Foundation, we recognize(sic) that civic engagement, no matter one’s political party, is at the heart of a more just and equitable world. By participating in initiatives like this, we aim to amplify the message that every voice matters. Together, let’s make sure every eligible voter is informed and empowered to participate in shaping America’s future."

Generally, members of the Royal Family steer clear of politics and refrain from voicing their political opinions.

But while Harry and Meghan stepped down as senior working members of the Royal Family and did not endorse either Kamala Harris or Donald Trump, their latest statement did contain political overtones.

However, a PR expert has claimed that their message was "in line" with their global brand of doing "what they want, without any thought towards royal guidelines or customs".

Renae Smith, founder and director of the Atticism, told Express.co.uk: "From a PR perspective, their statement on the US elections likely won’t have a significant impact, either positively or negatively.

"Since Harry and Meghan no longer hold working royal status, they’re not bound by the same conventions, and their audience, by now, expects them to speak out on political and social issues.

"They’ve worked hard to drive home their position as independent global figures, so this statement falls in line with the brand they’ve been working to build - eg that they do what they want, without any thought towards royal guidelines or customs."

But Ms Smith added that despite aligning with their brand, their statement could still spark backlash from those who still associate them with the Royal Family.

She explained: "While it might not shock their supporters, their decision to speak on a political matter might still raise eyebrows among critics, especially those who still associate them with their royal ties and feel they’re trying to play both sides of the coin when it comes to royalty.

"That said, because they didn’t endorse any specific candidate, I believe this statement will be viewed as neutral in its impact."

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex declined to comment.