Birmingham, Alabama, September 21, 2025
News Summary
During a state dinner at Windsor Castle, King Charles III welcomed President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, emphasizing the historical ties between Birmingham, Alabama, and Birmingham, England. Alabama Governor Kay Ivey expressed pride over the state’s recognition. The visit, marked by both celebration and protests, showcased the ongoing relations between the UK and the US. King Charles also visited Birmingham, engaging in discussions on health advancements at the newly opened Midland Metropolitan University Hospital.
Birmingham, Alabama
King Charles III hosted President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump during a state dinner at Windsor Castle, highlighting the historical connections between Birmingham, Alabama, and Birmingham, England. In his speech, the King emphasized how both cities are tied together through a common language and shared heritage, noting the importance of the bonds formed by thousands of people from each nation who have established homes in the other country.
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey expressed pride in the King’s mention of the state, declaring it “truly worthy for a king.” This event marked Trump’s second state visit to the UK as sitting president—his first visit was hosted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2019. Notably, Trump is the first elected leader to be hosted twice by a British monarch in modern history.
The UK Ministry of Defense reported that the parade for Trump’s visit was the largest military celebration for a state visit in the country. Despite the formalities surrounding the event, protests against Trump’s visit occurred in London, organized by the Stop Trump Campaign. According to a British poll, Trump’s popularity rating in the UK stands at only 16%, with 70% of the population reportedly disliking him.
Earlier this year, Birmingham City FC, with support from football star Tom Brady, partnered with the Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau. This partnership serves to further connect the two cities.
While in the UK, King Charles III visited Birmingham, where he opened the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital and engaged with patients about their health challenges. During his visit to the Oratory of St Philip Neri, the King expressed his long-standing interest in the historical items associated with Cardinal John Henry Newman.
Topics discussed by the King included advancements in medical treatment for various health issues, emphasizing a message of hope and recognition of the patients’ frustrations. The King’s visits and the state dinner highlight ongoing connections between the two nations and illustrate the significance of royal engagements in fostering international relations.
Key Details of the State Dinner
- Event: State dinner at Windsor Castle
- Host: King Charles III
- Guests: President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump
- Highlight: Mention of Birmingham, Alabama
- Governor’s Response: Kay Ivey’s pride in Alabama being recognized
Protests and Public Response
- Protests organized under the Stop Trump Campaign
- Trump’s UK popularity rating: 16% with 70% disliking him
Connections Between Birmingham Cities
- Partnership between Birmingham City FC and Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau
- King Charles III’s visit to open Midland Metropolitan University Hospital
- Engagement with health-related issues and discussions on advancements
Background Context
This state dinner and the discussions surrounding it reflect the long-standing ties between the United Kingdom and the United States, particularly focusing on the cities bearing the same name. The connections emphasize shared culture, language, and healthcare innovations, enhancing diplomatic relations between the nations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who hosted the state dinner for President Trump?
King Charles III hosted President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump during a state dinner at Windsor Castle.
What did King Charles emphasize in his speech?
King Charles mentioned Birmingham, Alabama, highlighting the historical connections between it and Birmingham, England.
How did Alabama’s governor react to the mention of the state?
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey expressed pride in the mention, stating, “Alabama is truly worthy for a king!”
What was significant about this state visit?
This event marked Trump’s second state visit to the UK as sitting president; his previous visit was hosted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2019.
Key Features of the Event
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Host | King Charles III |
| Guests | President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump |
| Historical Connection | Birmingham, Alabama, and Birmingham, England |
| Governor’s Response | Governor Kay Ivey expressed pride in Alabama |
| Public Perception | Trump’s popularity in the UK is 16% |
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Additional Resources
- AL.com: Ivey Says Alabama is Worthy for a King
- CBS 42: King Charles III References Alabama
- Bham Now: King Charles III Highlights Birmingham
- BBC: King Charles III and Birmingham
- Catholic News Agency: King Charles III Visits Birmingham Oratory
- Wikipedia: Birmingham
- Google Search: King Charles III Trump visit

Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.


