JD Vance refuses to clap as King Charles receives standing ovation at Congress speech

King Charles spoke to members of the US Congress on Tuesday, boasting about US and UK relations in a message of unity despite rising world tensions and received a widespread standing ovation. However, some leaders did respond as positively to his Majesty's address. King Charles became the second reigning monarch to address the American legislative body . The first was his mother, the late Queen Elizabeth II. The King took the podium in front of Vice President JD Vance and House Speaker Mike Johnson. Throughout his speech, the pair grasped their hands after Charles' words of unifying and togetherness, along with the rest of Congress. But the head of state also touched on topics such as support for Ukraine and the “collapse of critical natural systems” – issues not in favour with President Donald Trump – and said the essence of Britain and America was a “duty to foster compassion, to promote peace” and “value all people, of all faiths, and of none”. In moments like this, video from the Hall of the House shows that Vice President JD Vance refused to clap in support of the British monarch. The King said: "In the immediate aftermath of 9/11, when NATO invoked Article 5 for the first time, and the United Nations Security Council was united in the face of terror, we answered the call together – as our people have done so for more than a century, shoulder to shoulder, through two World Wars, the Cold War, Afghanistan and moments that have defined our shared security. "Today, Mr. Speaker, that same, unyielding resolve is needed for the defence of Ukraine and her most courageous people – it is needed in order to secure a truly just and lasting peace." Much of the Hall applauded this statement, but Vance remained seated and did not join in. Charles is midway through a four-day state visit to mark the 250th anniversary of American independence and he spoke about bonds between former enemies, the US and Britain. “The Alliance that our two Nations have built over the centuries – and for which we are profoundly grateful to the American people – is truly unique,” said the King. Addressing Mike Johnson, speaker of the House of Representatives, He went on to say: “That partnership, I believe Mr Speaker, is more important today than it has ever been.” Guest speakers on Capitol Hill traditionally receive brief standing ovations on points that resonate with politicians and the King was afforded that honour when he mentioned the gun attack against the president. He also received applause and cheers when he described America’s Founding Fathers as “bold and imaginative rebels with a cause”.