King Charles III delivered a historic address to a joint meeting of the U.S. Congress, underscoring the long-standing relationship and shared values between Britain and the United States.

A Historical Perspective on the Alliance

On Tuesday, April 28, 2026, King Charles III spoke from the House Chamber of the U.S. Capitol. He acknowledged the historical complexities of the relationship, including the American Revolution and the principle of ‘no taxation without representation.’ The King noted this foundational disagreement ultimately contributed to strengthening shared democratic values.

Unity in the Face of Global Challenges

King Charles III highlighted the importance of unity in addressing current global challenges, specifically mentioning conflicts in Europe and the Middle East. He strongly condemned acts of violence aimed at undermining democratic principles, referencing an incident that occurred near the Capitol building.

A Legacy of Connection

The King reflected on his position as the 19th British sovereign to closely follow American affairs. He paid tribute to his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, who also addressed Congress in 1991, and conveyed the deep respect and friendship of the British people.

Humor and Shared Values

King Charles III injected a touch of British humor into his speech, playfully referencing the tradition of holding a Parliament member ‘hostage’ during speeches to Parliament and inquiring if any U.S. Congress members would volunteer. He emphasized that despite occasional disagreements, the two nations share fundamental common ground.

Celebrating Collaboration

The speech celebrated the collaborative achievements resulting from Anglo-American cooperation. The King cited a quote from former President Trump, describing the bond between the two countries as ‘priceless and eternal.’

A Tale of Two Georges

On his 20th visit to the United States and his first as King, King Charles III drew a parallel between the first U.S. President, George Washington, and his ancestor, King George III, calling it ‘A Tale of Two Georges.’ He reaffirmed the commitment to upholding democracy, protecting citizens, and honoring those who serve.

The address, listened to by Vice President JD Vance and House Speaker Mike Johnson, served as a powerful reaffirmation of the transatlantic alliance and a call for continued collaboration in safeguarding shared values and addressing global challenges.