Norway’s parliament voted overwhelmingly Tuesday to maintain the country’s monarchy, rejecting a proposal to establish a republic despite recent controversy surrounding the royal family and a dip in public support. Of the 169 members, 141 voted in favor of continuing the monarchy, while 26 supported ending the reign of King Harald and his descendants.

Supporters of the monarchy argue that the institution provides stability by remaining above partisan politics and has served Norway well since independence from Sweden in 1905. Advocates for a republic countered that political authority already resides with the elected parliament and government, and that inherited privilege does not belong in a democratic society. The proposal, sponsored by seven lawmakers across multiple parties, sought to amend the constitution to replace the king with an elected president.

The vote comes amid scrutiny of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, who faced criticism from the prime minister for her past contacts with Jeffrey Epstein. Mette-Marit issued an apology Saturday, acknowledging the interactions occurred after Epstein’s 2008 conviction for child sex crimes.

Public support for the monarchy has shown signs of softening. A recent poll by Verdens Gang found that 61 percent of Norwegians support keeping the royal family, down from 72 percent last year, while 27 percent favor a republic, up 10 points. The survey also asked whether Mette-Marit should become Norway’s next queen, with 44 percent opposed, 33 percent in favor, and the remainder undecided.

Adding to the royal family’s recent challenges, Mette-Marit’s 29-year-old son from a previous relationship, Marius Hoiby, went on trial Tuesday. He faces charges including rape, domestic violence, assault, and drug possession. Hoiby has denied the most serious allegations while admitting to lesser offenses.

Despite these controversies and slipping public support, Norway’s parliament has reaffirmed the monarchy, signaling the institution remains a central pillar of the nation’s political and cultural identity.