Trump's Royal Inquisition: New Book Details His Persistent Questioning of Queen Elizabeth
A newly published book, The Queen and Her Presidents: The Hidden Hand That Shaped History by Susan Page, has unveiled startling details about Donald Trump's interactions with the late Queen Elizabeth II during his 2019 state visit to the United Kingdom. The revelations paint a picture of the former US president's relentless curiosity about the British royal family, particularly focusing on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's relationship.
Persistent Questioning on Royal Gossip
According to the book, Trump extensively interrogated Queen Elizabeth about the dynamics between Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, despite her attempts to maintain a polite and evasive stance. The Queen, known for her discretion and diplomatic grace, reportedly deflected his inquiries with tact, but Trump persisted in seeking insider information on the couple's personal affairs. This episode highlights the unusual nature of the exchange, as state visits typically centre on formal diplomacy rather than personal gossip.
Attempts to Uncover Presidential Favourites
In addition to probing about the royals, Trump attempted to coax the Queen into naming her favourite among the 14 US presidents she had met throughout her long reign. Queen Elizabeth declined to single out any individual, instead offering a diplomatic response that they were all 'so good'. This refusal did not deter Trump, who reportedly believed he held a special place as her preferred president. His then-ambassador echoed this sentiment, suggesting a perceived closeness that others found questionable.
Skepticism and Amusement from Other Figures
The book also notes reactions from other prominent figures, such as Jill Biden and Hillary Clinton, who expressed both skepticism and amusement at Trump's presumption of being the Queen's favourite. Their comments underscore the broader perception that Trump's self-assessment was at odds with the Queen's well-known impartiality and reserved nature. This adds a layer of irony to the narrative, contrasting Trump's confidence with the Queen's steadfast neutrality.
Overall, these revelations from Susan Page's book provide a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of politics and royalty, showcasing how personal curiosity can sometimes overshadow formal statecraft during high-profile international visits.
