As the United States prepares to mark its 250th year of independence, King Charles III addressed a joint session of Congress on Tuesday, speaking to the successor of the very body that declared the nation’s founding, and drawing a standing ovation as he honored the historic moment.
“I would like to take this opportunity to express my particular gratitude for the great honor of addressing this joint meeting of Congress and on behalf of the Queen and myself, to thank the American people for welcoming us to the United States to mark this semi-quincentennial year of the Declaration of Independence,” Charles said.
Charles is only the second British monarch to address a joint session of Congress, following Queen Elizabeth II in 1991. While he visited the United States 19 times as Prince of Wales, this marks his first trip as king since ascending the throne in 2022, and the first royal to visit the United States since 2007.
“The need for our two nations to stand shoulder-to-shoulder has never been more vital,” Charles said, pointing to global conflicts including the war between Russia and Ukraine and tensions in the Middle East.
The visit comes at a moment of strain in the U.S.-U.K. relationship, shaped by President Donald Trump’s criticism of NATO, Britain’s reluctance to fully back U.S. actions in Iran, and disagreements with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Still, Charles emphasized that the alliance remains essential.
“The commitment and expertise of the United States Armed Forces and its allies lie at the heart of NATO,” Charles said. “Pledged to each other’s defense, protecting our citizens and interests, keeping North Americans and Europeans safe from our common adversaries.”
Charles also reflected on the deep historical ties between the two nations, invoking both George Washington and King George III.
“King George, as you know, never set foot in America,” he said, adding with a laugh, “please rest assured, ladies and gentlemen, I am not here as part of some cunning rearguard action.”
He praised the Founding Fathers as “bold and imaginative rebels with a cause,” noting that they forged a free nation while carrying forward traditions rooted in the British Enlightenment, English common law, and Magna Carta.
“By balancing contending forces and drawing strength in diversity, they united 13 disparate colonies to forge a nation on the revolutionary idea of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness,” he said.
Charles also struck a more personal tone, describing the Christian faith as a “firm anchor and daily inspiration,” and expressing hope that nations can work together “to foster peace” and deepen understanding across faiths.
Earlier Tuesday, during a White House event, President Trump reflected on the transformation of the U.S.-U.K. relationship from wartime adversaries to close allies.
“There, the direct descendant of King George III will speak to the direct successor of the very body that gathered in Independence Hall on July 4th, 1776,” Trump said. “If John Adams and George Washington or the King’s fifth great-grandfather could see that sight, they might be absolutely shocked, but probably only for a moment. Surely, they would be delighted that the wounds of war healed into the most cherished friendship.”
The state visit has blended ceremony and diplomacy. On Monday, President Trump and first lady Melania Trump welcomed Charles and Queen Camilla to the White House for tea and a tour of a newly installed beehive, followed by a garden party at the British ambassador’s residence.
On Tuesday, the royal couple returned for a formal arrival ceremony with military honors, remarks from Trump, a guest book signing, gift exchange, and a bilateral Oval Office meeting. Meanwhile, the first lady and Queen Camilla hosted an educational event for students.
Charles is scheduled to return to the White House on Tuesday night for a formal state dinner expected to host around 100 guests.
On Wednesday, the king and queen are expected to visit the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in New York City, where they will meet with victims’ families and first responders connected to the aftermath of the deadliest terrorist attack on American soil.
The visit will conclude on Thursday, when Trump and the first lady bid farewell to the royal couple before they travel to Virginia for additional events and then depart for Bermuda.
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