California Governor Gavin Newsom’s recent decision to appoint an unqualified non-resident to replace the late Senator Dianne Feinstein has raised significant questions in American politics.
While Newsom’s choice is expected to serve out Feinstein’s remaining term, the upcoming election remains uncertain.
Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, is reportedly making efforts to gain favor with California’s Democratic decision-makers, potentially with the aim of running for office in 2024.
Feinstein had previously stated she would not seek re-election, prompting both Democrats and Republicans to prepare for the upcoming election cycle.
Markle is the latest figure showing interest in replacing the longtime Democratic representative.
According to sources from the Daily Mail, donor interest in her candidacy has grown since Feinstein’s passing.
“The problem he now faces is that all the best candidates have already announced they will be running for Feinstein’s seat in November 2024, the next election. Governor Newsom cannot elect any of those candidates to the position now as it would be seen as a huge, and very unfair, advantage.” a source told Daily Mail.
“If he puts any of the very good Black women candidates in the job now he will be accused of favoritism. So he needs to find a woman of color who can do the job for 13 months and will agree to not stand against any of the seasoned politicians who have already thrown their hats into the ring. There are not that many women who fit the bill. Which is why Meghan’s name is being bandied about.” the source added.
Markle had previously been considered a potential replacement for Vice President Kamala Harris, who represented California in the Senate before joining the Biden campaign in 2020.
Markle, known for her acting career and marriage to Prince Harry, has used her influence to promote liberal policy positions, including gun control and parental leave.
While she has ties to the California Democratic committee through her social standing in Los Angeles, she lacks prior elected leadership experience.
Several Democrats have expressed their intent to vie for the vacant Senate seat, including Rep. Katie Porter, who declared her candidacy early, Rep. Adam Schiff, and Rep. Barbara Lee. Notably, Lee is a person of color, a quality Democrats have emphasized, though Markle’s race and wealth may work against her in this context.
California has been a stronghold for Democrats for years, with no Republican holding statewide office since 2006.
The odds of a Republican winning are considered remote, given the Democratic party’s significant numerical advantage, well-funded machinery, and media and tech connections that maintain its super-majority in the state.
Markle would join a lineage of California residents who transitioned from entertainment careers to political influence, including former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and former President Ronald Reagan, who successfully leveraged their celebrity status in politics.
