ABC News Daily Why royal diplomacy works on Trump
Sep 18, 2025
Kim Hoggard, a former Assistant Press Secretary during the Reagan and Bush administrations, shares insights on Donald Trump's recent state visit to the UK. She discusses the significance of royal diplomacy and how Trump's admiration for the monarchy plays into US-UK relations. Hoggard highlights the protests surrounding the visit and the political ramifications for leaders like Keir Starmer. Additionally, she advises Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on navigating his upcoming meeting with Trump, advocating for a strong and respectful approach.
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Power Of Pageantry
- State visits give leaders visual stature and credibility that Trump values highly.
- Kim Hoggard says the monarchy's pageantry reinforces Trump's sense of personal recognition and influence.
Ceremony With Policy Hints
- King Charles used the banquet to mention AUKUS, Ukraine and global stability while staying apolitical.
- Kim Hoggard highlights the king leveraging ceremony to underline allied priorities without overstepping his role.
Protests Pierce The Glamour
- Protests outside Windsor Castle showed the Epstein controversy remains politically damaging.
- Kim Hoggard notes such imagery breaks through the glamour and keeps victims' voices in the public eye.