Trump Hosts King Charles III at State Dinner

President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump hosted King Charles III and Queen Camilla at the White House for a state dinner on the evening of April 28, 2026.

King Charles made his historic first visit to the United States following his ascension to the throne in 2022, arriving in Washington, D.C., the previous day. During the dinner, the U.S. and British leaders spoke about the shared history, culture, and values that unite their countries.

Earlier that day, King Charles addressed a joint session of Congress, marking him as only the second British monarch to do so, the first being the late Queen Elizabeth II in 1991.

“I want to congratulate King Charles on his powerful speech in Congress today. He really managed to stand up to the Democratic Party—something I’ve never been able to do,” Trump quipped, prompting laughter from the audience.

As both nations prepare to celebrate 250 years of independence, President Trump emphasized the importance of the relationship between the U.S. and Britain. He affirmed that it was fitting to recognize this strong bond during such a significant moment.

Reflecting on their intertwined histories, Trump acknowledged the early settlers who “crossed the great Atlantic Ocean to settle and civilize this continent in the name of God, King, and Country.” He noted that America’s revolutionary struggle was not about rejecting its heritage but rather reclaiming and enhancing it.

“In the eyes of America’s Founding Fathers, our Revolutionary War was fought not to reject this heritage, but to reclaim and perfect it,” he stated.

The president pointed out that while political ties were severed, the cultural threads that connect the two nations remained strong, resulting in an enduring friendship. He compared the “noble spirit” shared by both peoples and likened British maritime achievements to American westward expansion.

Furthermore, he highlighted that both nations have stood united against threats such as communism and tyranny over the years. As he lifted a toast to mark the occasion, he expressed gratitude for Britain’s impact on American laws and customs.

“May our two nations be forever united in freedom, justice, and the glory of God,” he said while raising his glass.

King Charles reciprocated the sentiments, emphasizing the importance of the longstanding partnership between their nations and expressing his intention to “renew our vital alliance.”

During his speech, he also expressed condolences regarding the recent security incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, commending Trump’s courage and the swift response of security teams.

As a gesture of goodwill, King Charles presented a historical bell from England to Trump, humorously adding that it was launched from a British shipyard in 1944 and played a crucial role during the Pacific War.

“If you ever need help, just give us a call,” he joked.

Wrapping up the evening, King Charles raised his glass in a toast to the future of the alliance between the two countries.

“Let us raise our cups and our voices and toast to the past, present, and future of our two proud allies,” he declared. “To the United States and the United Kingdom, God bless them both.”