At a state dinner on Tuesday, King Charles III delivered a pointed jest regarding President Donald Trump’s ambitious $400 million ballroom project, which involves demolishing the East Wing of the White House.
“On this occasion, I cannot help noticing the readjustments to the East Wing, Mr. President,” the king remarked, standing mere feet away from Trump and First Lady Melania Trump.
His quip referenced a historical incident where British forces set the presidential residence ablaze during the War of 1812. “And I’m sorry to say that we British, of course, made our own small attempt at real estate redevelopment of the White House in 1814,” he added, eliciting laughter from the audience.
The president appeared to appreciate the humor, sharing a smile with Melania as the king’s words resonated in the room.
Before the British troops arrived in 1814, the White House had been evacuated. First Lady Dolley Madison played a crucial role in saving important documents and a portrait of George Washington, according to the White House Historical Association.
Fortunately, no injuries occurred during the fire. The original architect, James Hoban, along with both free and enslaved laborers, undertook restoration efforts in the years that followed.
This humorous exchange came shortly after a shooting incident outside the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner, an event that some Republicans have cited as justification for the ballroom's construction under the guise of national security.
As his speech progressed, King Charles highlighted his family’s historical connections to various locations across the United States, including Virginia, Maryland, and Charleston.
He also made a nod to Trump’s assertion that European nations would be speaking German today without American intervention during World War II. “Dare I say that, if it wasn’t for us, you’d be speaking French,” he quipped, referencing Britain’s pivotal role in defeating France during the Seven Years’ War.
