Prince William and Kate Middleton Pull Ahead of King Charles in New Royal Approval Poll
This decline coincides with significant family tensions, which include the return of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to Britain.
King Charles is on a nine-day Caribbean tour, beginning in the Bahamas with cultural and formal events. Before that, he led a state visit to Windsor honoring the Sultan of Oman. The monarch has kept a packed schedule despite health challenges; however, a recent poll suggests he is not up to the mark. Fresh public opinion has tipped in favor of the Prince and Princess of Wales.
A recent YouGov poll suggests King Charles' popularity has plunged to its lowest level since he ascended the throne. Figures indicate that 58% of the public view him positively—a four-point drop since summer. Negative perceptions have risen by three points to 34%, matching the highest figure recorded during his reign. This decline coincides with significant family tensions, which include the return of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to Britain.
The poll highlights that despite the monarch's increased efforts to maintain a robust royal calendar, public sentiment towards the monarchy has dwindled, raising questions about whether this is a fleeting issue or the start of a longer-term decline in royal approval.
Meanwhile, Prince William and Kate Middleton's popularity continues to rise. The poll findings indicated that 72-74% of Britons viewed them favorably. Princess Anne also enjoys significant support, with 68% of the public holding a positive opinion of her. The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh each attract 51 percent approval. Notably, Prince Edward and Sophie draw relatively little hostility, with just 20% and 13% of the public, respectively, viewing them unfavorably.
Queen Camilla has recorded a 50-50 popularity rating. 42% view her positively, while 45% view her negatively. Harry's approval has dropped to 29%, with 60% of the public viewing him unfavorably. Markle follows next, with only 20% viewing her positively and 68% negatively, for a net favorability score of -48. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor ranks last, with only 4% favorable opinions versus 89% negative.
Middleton has always captivated hearts during public engagements; however, William has been reinventing his image. The Prince of Wales has stepped up in his relationship with the paparazzi. He has also been seen essaying more diplomatic roles on behalf of his father. With his Earthshot Awards initiative just days away, William has been branding himself more through podcasts, television, and sit-down interviews, which have refreshed his public image.
He was recently seen joking and clicking pictures with the crowd during Cricket on the Mall, outside Buckingham. Royal fans also witnessed his poignant side when he visited Aberfan. All of these have significantly increased his popularity.
