Former U.S. President Donald Trump has once again made headlines during his ongoing state visit to the United Kingdom, this time for an off-mic comment that revealed his genuine admiration for King Charles III.
Trump, accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump, was hosted at Windsor Castle by King Charles and Queen Camilla, making him the first U.S. president ever invited to the UK for two separate state visits.
The Off-Mic Moment
During the glittering state banquet in St George’s Hall, cameras caught Trump leaning towards the King with an offhand remark. According to lip-reader Jeremy Freeman, Trump told Charles:
“It’s so incredible, it’s what you do so well.”
The short but telling comment highlighted Trump’s respect for the monarch’s ability to engage warmly with guests and make people feel seen, something Trump would later expand on in his speech.
Trump’s Tribute to the King and Royals
In his banquet remarks, Trump described being welcomed for a second state visit as the “highest honour” of his life, adding with a touch of humor that he hoped it would be the last time such a visit was necessary.
He praised King Charles’ dedication, recalling how the monarch personally greeted over 150 guests that evening:
“The King knew every single person and every single company. I was very impressed with that.”
The former president also expressed admiration for Prince William, calling him a “remarkable” man and predicting “unbelievable success” for the Prince of Wales.
A Personal Connection
Trump’s affection for the British monarchy isn’t new. His late mother, Mary Trump, was born in Scotland and kept scrapbooks filled with pictures of Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Margaret. That family tie has long fueled Trump’s fascination with the Royal Family, making his public praise of the King and his heirs all the more heartfelt.
Beyond the Banquet
After the pageantry of Windsor, Trump is now turning back to politics. He is set to meet Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at Chequers, the Prime Minister’s countryside retreat, followed by a joint press conference and a business reception with Chancellor Rachel Reeves.
Before flying back to Washington on Air Force One, Trump will reunite with Melania, who is staying behind at Windsor for the day.
A Rare Glimpse of Sincerity
For a leader often known for bold statements and political sparring, Trump’s candid remark to King Charles offered a softer glimpse of respect and admiration. In the grandeur of Windsor Castle, it wasn’t politics that stood out, but the genuine acknowledgment of a monarch’s dedication to his people.
