Norway Votes to Keep Monarchy Amid Epstein Scandal Fallout

Despite recent turmoil within the royal family and a new poll showing declining public support for the monarchy, Norway’s parliament voted overwhelmingly on February 3, 2026, to retain its constitutional monarchy—rejecting a proposal to become a republic. Of the 169 members of parliament, 141 voted in favor of preserving the monarchy, while 26 supported abolishing the institution. Pro-monarchy lawmakers emphasized stability, neutrality, and historical continuity since independence from Sweden in 1905. Opponents argued that democratic legitimacy resides solely with elected bodies and that hereditary privilege contradicts modern democratic values. The rejected proposal called for constitutional reform to elect a president as head of state. Meanwhile, Crown Princess Mette-Marit faced sharp criticism after admitting ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein post-2008; Prime Minister condemned her judgment. A Verdens Gang poll released the same day found 61% support for the monarchy—down from 72% last year—with republican support rising to 27%. Only 33% backed Mette-Marit as future queen, while 44% opposed it. In a related development, her 29-year-old son Marius Høiby appeared in court on charges including rape and assault.