politics
April 28, 2026
Mission accomplished as king’s speech to Congress goes down a storm
Charles quoted Wilde and Dickens in measured masterclass – and no tirade as yet from mad monarch in White House
TL;DR
- King Charles III addressed the US Congress, marking a significant moment as the first British king to do so.
- The speech aimed to strengthen the US-UK 'special relationship' by highlighting common historical bonds and values.
- Charles III incorporated quotes from literary figures like Oscar Wilde and Charles Dickens, as well as references to historical figures like Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln.
- The speech included subtle political commentary, referencing the importance of checks and balances and alluding to NATO's role and support for Ukraine.
- The address was met with widespread applause from members of Congress from both parties, suggesting a successful diplomatic maneuver.
- The speech consciously avoided mentioning contentious contemporary political issues or figures directly.