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'Legitimately laughable': Internet pours cold water on reports Meghan Markle plans to run for Dianne Feinstein's Senate seat

An insider said, 'Meghan is definitely a long shot but in the craziness that is US politics these days, it's not an impossibility'

LOS ANGELS, CALIFORNIA: In the wake of Californian Senator Dianne Feinstein's death, speculation about her successor has ignited discussions across the political spectrum. To the surprise of many, the name of Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has emerged as a long-shot candidate to fill the vacant seat.

Markle, known for her left-leaning politics and activism for women's empowerment, has cultivated political connections in the country since relocating to California with her husband, Prince Harry, in 2020.

Gavin Newsom faces unique challenge in selecting a replacement for Dianne Feinstein

Dianne Feinstein's death has created a unique scenario for California Governor Gavin Newsom, a charismatic figure who is considered a frontrunner for the presidency should anything happen to President Joe Biden, as he has the authority to select a replacement for the seat until the next election in November 2024.

Notably, the decision carries significant weight, especially considering the previous promise he made of appointing a Black woman to the role.

According to a source close to Governor Newsom, the challenge lies in the fact that many strong candidates have already declared their intentions to run in the 2024 election. Appointing any of these seasoned politicians now would be viewed as favoritism and unfair advantage.

"If he puts any of the very good black women candidates in the job now he will be accused of favouritism. 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," the insider told the Daily Mail.

They added, "There are not that many women who fit the bill. Which is why Meghan's name is being bandied about."

In the words of a Democratic donor with ties to Governor Newsom, "Meghan is definitely a long shot but in the craziness that is US politics these days, it's not an impossibility. Crazier things have happened."

Meghan Markle's political ambitions

Meghan Markle's potential political aspirations are not entirely surprising. Back in 2020, reports indicated that she was "networking among senior Democrats," with ambitions that extended to the highest office in the land, the US presidency.

While she and Prince Harry had a virtual meeting with Governor Gavin Newsom during the search for Kamala Harris' replacement, another candidate was ultimately chosen.

As per sources, Markle's political interests have led her to establish connections within the Democratic Party.

The Duchess of Sussex counts feminist Gloria Steinem, a prominent figure in Democratic circles, as a close friend, who has introduced her to key figures within the party. 

A friend of Steinem's explained, "Gloria has been introducing Meghan to pivotal people within the party. Meghan is interested in politics more than anything else. That's where she believes her power is but she has had to focus on making money," to the Daily Mail. 

Additionally, Markle' has built relationships with influential people, such as Oprah Winfrey and the Kennedy family, renowned for their Democratic affiliations. These connections have undoubtedly bolstered her political network.

Having said that, her potential candidacy for the Senate has received mixed reactions. While some believe she could be a refreshing addition to the political landscape, others dismiss her as an inexperienced and publicity-seeking candidate.

"I don't think you can take Meghan seriously," apparently said a senior source, according to the Daily Mail. 

Internet reacts to Meghan Markle's potentially replacing Dianne Feinstein 

Netizens were quick to poke fun at the prospect of Meghan Markle taking a seat in the Senate as the replacement for Dianne Feinstein. 

One took to X (formerly Twitter) to write, "It’s legitimately laughable that Meghan Markle in all her narcissistic sociopathy, would consider herself anywhere near experienced enough to be considered for Diane Feinstein's senate seat!"

They added, "You have to actually lead something other than a PR campaign to be in the same league with such a formidable politician. Nobody is going to vote for a lying, clout-seeking, fauxmanitarian, philanthropist!"

"I’d love to see her try though. It could be the most dismal vote tally in the history of the seat," stated another. 

A person expressed, "Pipe dream...she has way too much baggage. Not a stellar past that would be exposed in a heartbeat by another campaign." 

"She couldn’t stand the heat or the scrutiny," said one more.