Trump tells King Charles his mom had a 'crush' on him at state welcome

President Trump described how his Scottish-born mother followed royal ceremonies closely, highlighting her fascination with tradition and pageantry
President Donald Trump and Britain's King Charles III talk during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
President Donald Trump and Britain's King Charles III talk during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump struck a personal tone while welcoming King Charles III and Queen Camilla, recalling his Scottish-born mother’s deep admiration for the British royal family.

Trump said his mother was captivated by Queen Elizabeth II, often watching her ceremonial appearances on television and remarking on her elegance. “She loved the royal family,” he said, describing how she would closely follow royal events.

President Donald Trump and Britain's King Charles III, talk during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)
President Donald Trump and Britain's King Charles III talk during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

A 'cute' young prince remembered

The president also shared a lighter anecdote, recalling how his mother once described a young Prince Charles as “so cute,” joking that she had a “crush” on him, a remark that drew attention during the welcoming speech.

Trump lauded the King and Queen for hosting him during what he called a “spectacular” and “extraordinary” visit to Windsor Castle last year, underscoring his appreciation for royal traditions and hospitality.

President Donald Trump, left, and King Charles III depart an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)
President Donald Trump and King Charles III depart an arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Hands-on role in state visit planning

Known for his enthusiasm for ceremonial grandeur, Trump has taken an active role in organizing the state visit, overseeing key details such as the guest list and menu for the state dinner, with input from First Lady Melania Trump.

“Now it is our tremendous privilege to host you,” Trump said, closing his remarks by emphasizing the significance of the visit and the importance of strengthening ties between the two nations.

Officials said the visit underscores efforts to deepen US-UK ties across diplomacy, security and trade.

President Donald Trump and Britain's King Charles III walk during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
President Donald Trump and Britain's King Charles III walk during a State Visit arrival ceremony on the South Lawn of the White House, Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Washington (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Both sides are seeking to project unity amid global uncertainties, using the high-profile state visit to reaffirm shared democratic values and long-standing cooperation while also opening avenues for closer engagement on emerging international challenges.

GET BREAKING U.S. NEWS & POLITICAL UPDATES
STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX.

MORE STORIES

CBS News senior White House correspondent Weijia Jiang acknowledged that conflict between presidents and journalists was nothing new
2 hours ago
Democratic Rep Greg Casar said the shooting happened on Sunday morning and called for an independent investigation
3 hours ago
Sylvester Stallone said that if he had been asked directly at the outset, he would have rejected the idea
4 hours ago
The families' campaign came as Congress separately examined the same nuclear agreement over transparency concerns
7 hours ago
Speaking on 'The Assignment with Antonia Hylton', Peter Alexander said Donald Trump 'cannot handle the truth' and does not want Americans to hear it
16 hours ago
Stephanie Grisham, who served as White House press secretary during Trump’s first term, said the press ban 'didn’t surprise' her at all
17 hours ago
Newly released UFO files by the Pentagon featured flashing lights filmed decades apart, including a 2023 sighting reportedly near a military site
19 hours ago
The man was later taken to a nearby hospital for a 'mental health evaluation,' according to the Secret Service
21 hours ago
The long deployment had already become a source of concern among some Lincoln families before the carrier began its return journey
1 day ago
A fundraising campaign for juror Michael P Desronvil also grew substantially amid the ongoing controversy
1 day ago