Queen Elizabeth II displayed a notable tolerance, and even a private enjoyment, for moments of unpredictability and informal interaction during her encounters with U.S. presidents, reflecting a more personal side beneath decades of formal diplomacy.
One memorable incident involved President Gerald Ford’s family during a White House visit. While the Queen was receiving a private tour before dinner, Ford’s son, Jack, unexpectedly appeared half-dressed, wearing only socks and an open shirt. Despite First Lady Betty Ford’s embarrassment, the Queen responded with humor, noting she had a similar son at home. The occasion was further enlivened when Ford grew visibly irritated after being seated to dance with the Queen while the band played "The Lady is a Tramp," a moment Elizabeth found amusing.
The Queen’s relationship with the Bush family also revealed moments of levity. Before a White House lunch hosted by President George H.W. Bush, First Lady Barbara Bush sought to keep their son, the future President George W. Bush, physically distant from the Queen, concerned about his younger, more rebellious image. When the Queen addressed the younger Bush as the “black sheep” of the family, he acknowledged the label, prompting a remark from Elizabeth that all families have their black sheep. Later, Bush showed the Queen a pair of cowboy boots emblazoned with “God Bless America.” Despite this early formality, George W. Bush developed a close rapport with Elizabeth during his presidency, becoming the only U.S. president to receive a reciprocal state visit both in London and Washington, D.C.
Elizabeth’s affinity for President Ronald Reagan was underscored by their shared appreciation of horses, including riding at Windsor Castle, an experience Reagan described as “fairy-tale.” The friendship endured well beyond Reagan’s presidency.
In contrast, the Queen maintained distance from presidents who faced scandals. Efforts to secure state visits for Richard Nixon during the Watergate scandal and Bill Clinton amid the Monica Lewinsky controversy were avoided. Her relationship with Jimmy Carter was also reportedly strained, reportedly exacerbated by an awkward incident when Carter unintentionally kissed the Queen Mother on the lips instead of the cheek.
Surprisingly warm relationships developed with later presidents. Barack Obama’s family history, including a Kenyan grandfather who worked for the British Army and was detained under colonial rule, added an unexpected dimension to his friendship with the Queen. Joe Biden, despite being advised by his Irish mother not to show deference to the monarchy, found himself appreciating Elizabeth, likening her to his own mother. Barack Obama and Bill Clinton both expressed admiration for the Queen’s character.
Former President Donald Trump’s claim to be the Queen’s favorite was met with skepticism by other past presidents and political figures. Biden dismissed the idea, with his wife Jill calling it “hysterical,” while Hillary Clinton saw no evidence to support the claim. Nevertheless, Trump acknowledged the Queen as a "truly legendary figure" whose presence would be difficult to replace.
These anecdotes and reflections are detailed in Susan Page’s forthcoming book, "The Queen and Her Presidents," set for release on April 23. The work offers a nuanced look at the Queen’s interactions with U.S. leaders over her reign, revealing the complexity and sometimes surprising warmth behind official protocol.