A new book, titled *The Queen and Her Presidents: The Hidden Hand That Shaped History* by Susan Page, offers intriguing insights into former President Donald Trump’s interactions with Queen Elizabeth II. The book chronicles the Queen’s relationships with a succession of US presidents, starting with Harry Truman in 1951 and culminating in her final state dinner in 2019, which honored Trump. During this visit, Trump reportedly pressed the Queen about her views on her grandson Prince Harry’s marriage to Meghan Markle, amidst media speculation of a royal rift.
Trump’s Probing Questions
Trump openly questioned the Queen about her family dynamics. He stated, “I asked her about it constantly,” seeking her true thoughts on the matter. The Queen maintained her customary decorum, responding, “No, no. It’s very nice.” Trump, however, felt that the royal family was not treating her with the respect she deserved.
Favorite Presidents Discussion
During the same state visit, Trump attempted to inquire who the Queen’s favorite US president was among the fourteen she had met. The Queen’s diplomatic response was, “Why? They were all so good.” Trump remarked on her reluctance to speak negatively about anyone.
- Trump believed that he and the Queen shared a strong bond, stating, “We just got along.”
- Woody Johnson, the then-US ambassador, supported Trump’s view on their connection.
Reactions from Former Presidents
Page’s book reveals skepticism from some former US leaders regarding Trump’s beliefs about their camaraderie. Jill Biden found it amusing, while Joe Biden simply shook his head. Hillary Clinton expressed her disbelief, suggesting that such confidence was typical of Trump.
Current UK-US Relations
The publication of this book comes at a time when the “special relationship” between the US and the UK is under strain. Trump’s dissatisfaction with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s stance on the Iran war has contributed to recent tensions. Moreover, calls have emerged from UK lawmakers to postpone King Charles III’s upcoming visit to the US.
Despite these issues, the White House is expected to announce the King’s state visit to the United States soon, signaling ongoing diplomatic engagement. *The Queen and Her Presidents* will be released by HarperCollins on April 23, further illuminating the intricate connections between Britain and America.
