Trump Concedes Rare Defeat to King Charles After Historic Speech: ‘I’ve Never Been Able to Do That’
Trump admitted he was 'jealous' after King Charles won over Congress with a speech packed with subtle but pointed messages.
King Charles addressed Congress at the U.S. Capitol on April 28, and he managed to receive strong bipartisan applause and multiple standing ovations. Donald Trump praised his speech and even admitted to being envious of all the attention that the monarch managed to pull.
After the royal couple arrived at the White House, Trump spoke to reporters and complimented Charles’ earlier address to Congress. While the king never directly criticized him, the speech still included a few subtle but sharp jabs at Trump’s leadership style. The President said, “He made a great speech. I was very jealous.”
In his speech, Charles reminded Congress that the United States was founded on the principle that executive power should be kept in check through balances and accountability, drawing applause from Democrats and Republicans alike. He also strongly backed NATO, voiced support for Ukraine, and spoke about the importance of protecting the environment.
The King also had a few jokes ready that made the entire room laugh: “When I address my own Parliament at Westminster, we still follow an age-old tradition and take a member of parliament hostage, holding him or her at Buckingham Palace until the monarch is safely returned.” He continued, “I don't know, Mr. Speaker, if there are any volunteers for that position today.”
During the dinner, Trump brought up King Charles’ Congress speech once again and congratulated him on what he called a fantastic address. He said, “I want to congratulate Charles on having made a fantastic speech today at Congress. He got the Democrats to stand; I’ve never been able to do that. I couldn’t believe it.” The comment was a nod to the backlash after several Democrats stayed seated during Trump’s own State of the Union address, including during recognition of the U.S. men’s hockey team. “They liked him more than they’ve ever liked any Republican or Democrat, actually. Not an easy thing to do; it’s a tough place,” he joked.
Charles also spoke about the importance of the long-standing alliance between the U.S. and the U.K. during his address: “The story of the United Kingdom and the United States is, at its heart, a story of reconciliation, renewal, and remarkable partnership.” He continued, “From the bitter divisions of 250 years ago, we forged a friendship that has grown into one of the most consequential alliances in human history.”
Charles said he hoped the U.S. and U.K. would continue working together to protect their shared values, along with their allies in Europe and across the Commonwealth. He also made it clear that turning inward was not the answer, stressing the importance of staying united and engaged with the world.
