By Molly Claire Goddard
2:23pm PST, Feb 20, 2026
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According to a survey by Savanta, commissioned by the anti-monarchy group Republic, civilian support for the royal family has dwindled. According to the poll, 32% of people would prefer an elected head of state to the monarchy. However, those who did not know which they preferred increased from 20% to 24% since October.
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Due to the ongoing scandal surrounding Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, U.K. citizens aren't feeling as positive as they once were about The Firm. "The monarchy is losing its one claim to legitimacy, opinion poll ratings. The trend across most polling is declining support and this poll shows how low that support has gone. Falling support is unsurprising given the gravity of accusations against Andrew," Republic's chief executive
Graham Smith told
Daily Express.
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Graham Smith doesn't think there's a way for the royals to retain their goodwill because of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. "The monarchy is not going to reverse this trend of falling support. The late Queen Elizabeth II was the one person keeping this creaking institution going. Even her legacy is now being tainted by the Andrew scandal," he said.
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The royal family was dealt a major blow when Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office for allegedly giving information to Jeffrey Epstein. "Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office. It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to investigate this alleged offense. We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time," Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright confirmed.
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King Charles III addressed the shocking situation head-on. "I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office," he said via
People. "What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities. In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation. Let me state clearly: the law must take its course. As this process continues, it would not be right for me to comment further on this matter. Meanwhile, my family and I will continue in our duty and service to you all."
