Prince Harry’s ongoing U.S. visa controversy is back in the spotlight, this time unfolding against the backdrop of Donald Trump’s presidency.
The legal dispute has taken a significant turn as a federal judge has scheduled a court hearing for February 5 in Washington, D.C., marking a critical moment since the case was revived by the Heritage Foundation.
The lawsuit centers on the Heritage Foundation’s demand to make Prince Harry’s immigration records public, citing his admissions of past drug use in his memoir Spare. The right-wing think tank argues that such disclosures should have impacted his visa eligibility, claiming Harry either misled immigration authorities or received preferential treatment.
Adding to the complexity, Trump’s past criticisms of Prince Harry loom over the case. In 2024, Trump remarked, “I wouldn’t protect him. He betrayed the Queen. That’s unforgivable.” These comments highlight the former president’s stance, which may further fuel the politicized nature of the legal battle.
Government attorneys, however, maintain that releasing Prince Harry’s immigration documents would violate his privacy rights. They argue that such actions would set a troubling precedent for the handling of sensitive personal information. Yet, Heritage Foundation officials remain determined. Nile Gardiner, director of the Margaret Thatcher Center for Freedom, has threatened to pressure the president to intervene directly. “I’ll be urging the president to release Prince Harry’s immigration records, and the president does have the legal authority to do that,” he asserted.
The case has also drawn attention to the broader implications of privacy, political influence, and public scrutiny. Prince Harry’s high-profile status, coupled with Trump’s outspoken disapproval, has created a tense and polarizing atmosphere. For critics, the case represents an opportunity to question whether the Duke of Sussex received any form of special treatment.
As the February 5 hearing approaches, the stakes are high for both Prince Harry and the political players involved. With privacy rights, immigration policies, and partisan agendas colliding, the courtroom showdown promises to be a contentious and closely watched event. All eyes are now on how this legal drama will unfold under the watchful eye of Trump’s administration.