King Charles delivered a remarkable address to the US Congress that exceeded all expectations, winning over even staunch republicans. Speaking for over half an hour, the monarch received 12 standing ovations and was praised for his bold yet diplomatic tone.
The speech came amid challenging headlines for the royal family, including scrutiny over Prince Andrew's ties to Jeffrey Epstein. Despite low expectations—a pre-visit IPSOS poll found only one-third of Brits believed the trip could be positive—Charles's performance was described as an underdog victory.
Charles subtly addressed tensions with President Trump, emphasising support for Nato and Ukraine while praising the British Navy. Trump later called the speech “great” and joked he was “jealous.” The King concluded with a pointed reminder that “America’s words carry weight.”
Notable republicans were won over. Alistair Campbell, a vocal anti-monarchist, praised the “clarion cry for Ukraine, Nato, nature, and democracy.” Journalist Emily Maitlis likened the speech to “Love Actually written by Plato.” Lifelong anti-monarchist Ann from Nottingham admitted, “Charles was good. Very good.”
Historian Hugo Vickers noted the address showed “the point of what a monarch can do”—rising above party politics to take a long-term diplomatic view. The speech has prompted comparisons to the late Queen Elizabeth's 1991 Congress appearance, with many seeing it as a defining moment for Charles's reign.
