Senator Ted Cruz has dismissed Meghan Markle's assertion that she tops the list of online harassment victims globally, suggesting the distinction actually belongs to Donald Trump.
The Texas Republican offered his view on Thursday, responding to the Duchess of Sussex's recent remarks during her Australian visit.
He said: "I'd probably say it's Donald Trump."
When questioned about whether the persistent mockery directed at the president was justified, Mr Cruz observed: "Like most trolling in life, some is fair, and some is unfair."
Republican senator takes swipe at Meghan Markle’s ‘most trolled person’ claim
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The senator acknowledged experiencing internet ridicule himself, noting: "When it's funny, I laugh!"
Despite his scepticism of her claim, Mr Cruz expressed appreciation for Meghan's acting work, describing Suits to TMZ as "awesome."
Meghan made her comments whilst addressing students at Swinburne University of Technology in Melbourne, where she spoke about social media's harmful effects on mental wellbeing.
The duchess urged young people to remain resilient, drawing on her own experiences in the public eye.
Ted Cruz at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) USA 2026
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"For now, 10 years, every day for 10 years, I have been bullied and attacked," she told the audience. "And I was the most trolled person in the entire world."
She emphasised her determination to persevere despite the sustained criticism, adding simply: "I'm still here."
The remarks came as part of the couple's ongoing Australian tour, which has generated considerable media attention.
During the same Australian visit, Prince Harry made striking admissions about his relationship with royal duties.
Meghan Markle spoke about being trolled over the last decade
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Meghan Markle emphasised her determination to persevere despite the sustained criticism
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Speaking at the InterEdge Summit in Melbourne, where tickets cost approximately £500 each, the duke revealed he never wished to serve as a working member of the monarchy.
Harry told attendees that the role had "killed" his mother, Princess Diana, explaining he had felt "lost, betrayed, or completely powerless" throughout periods of his life.
The duke acknowledged burying his feelings for years before eventually departing official duties and relocating to America with his wife, suggesting this path aligned with what his late mother would have wished for him.