Donald Trump fuels speculation over Duke of Sussex’s visa application
Prince Harry is facing renewed scrutiny over his U.S. immigration status, with conservative think tanks and former President Donald Trump questioning the Duke of Sussex’s transparency regarding past drug use.
The Heritage Foundation, a Washington-based conservative organisation, has called for the release of Harry’s visa documents amid allegations that he may have misrepresented his history of narcotic use when applying to move to the U.S.
In his memoir Spare, Harry openly admitted to using cocaine, marijuana, and psychedelic mushrooms in his youth. However, U.S. visa applicants are legally required to disclose any history of drug use, leaving the Duke’s application under question.
Despite losing a legal bid to unseal Harry’s immigration records in September, the Foundation has vowed to continue its efforts. They argue that revealing Harry’s visa details could provide insight into how U.S. officials exercise discretion in cases involving high-profile applicants.
Nile Gardiner, director of the Foundation’s Margaret Thatcher Center for Freedom, stated that they would be "urging the president" to make the documents public, emphasising the need for accountability. Gardiner remarked that under Trump’s stricter border policies, Harry would likely face consequences if he had been dishonest about his past.
Trump himself has weighed in on the controversy, suggesting that Harry could face deportation if he lied on his application. Speaking to Nigel Farage on GB News last year, Trump hinted at “appropriate action” if the allegations proved true, adding, “You’ll have to tell me,” when asked about possible deportation.
The former president also stated that he wouldn’t grant Harry any special treatment, citing the Duke’s alleged betrayal of the Queen as a further reason to withhold leniency.
While Harry’s wife Meghan Markle is American and their children hold dual citizenship, questions surrounding the Duke’s visa application continue to draw significant attention. For now, the Heritage Foundation appears determined to keep the matter in the public eye, ensuring that Harry’s immigration status remains a hot topic of debate.