EDIT: A royal announcement

After months of rumors, it was announced on Monday that the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, is expecting a child.

Americans reacted on social media networks and in the comment sections of major news publications, expressing everything from excitement about the baby to frustration that the royal couple was receiving so much hype all the way across the Atlantic. Overall, the response was similar to the public opinion on their engagement announcement — some people were enthusiastic and others apathetic.

While congratulations for the Duke and Duchess are in order, how much pregnancy coverage is too much, especially in the U.S. where the pregnancy really has no impact on us socially?

Some Americans might justify their excitement by arguing that the pregnancy brings the monarchy into the 21st century. The Duke and Duchess certainly bring a sort of new face to the monarchy, which might make the family somewhat relevant, but relevant to the U.S.? Not really. Kate’s fashion choices might inspire someone to make similar choices in the States. Her tenacity and go-getter attitude could also be considered inspiring. But outside of those attributes, what impact does she have on our country?

While some Americans will choose to follow the pregnancy, it is important not to lose sight of the real issues taking place at home and on a global scale. Americans have more important things to worry about than Middleton’s pregnancy. We are dealing with a looming fiscal cliff, not to mention several international conflicts. It is almost frustrating that people would fixate on something as frivilous as the royal pregnancy.

Looking forward, it will be interesting to see how far the media and Americans are willing to take this. Will the hype rise the level of the royal wedding? Or will people’s enthusiasm wane as they realize there are other more serious issues to be dealt with at home? Really, only time will tell.