King Charles playfully reminds Trump that he's Canada's head of state

30-Apr-2026

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After more than a year of U.S. President Donald Trump calling the country's prime ministers "governor," King Charles asserted his role as Canada's head of state in remarks at the White House on April 28.

In his speech at the official state banquet held in his honour, Charles gently poked at the president, at one point obliquely referencing Trump's penchant for suggesting Canada could become the 51st state.

"In just a few weeks, the United States and Canada will be among those to welcome the world as hosts of the FIFA World Cup," Charles said as Trump looked on. "So, in one sense, Mr. President, as heads of state, we are joint hosts."

He also playfully one-upped the president, noting Trump leads only one country competing in the soccer tournament.

"I can only say, as the head of state of five competing countries, I will be watching the matches closely and with great enthusiasm. After all, we always like favourable odds," Charles said.

In his remarks, Charles also made reference to the War of 1812 and the Seven Years' War — reminders that the U.S. hasn't always been the most dominant force.