Donald Trump and King Charles III: A Surprising Family Connection

A recent genealogical study has unveiled a fascinating connection between US President Donald Trump and Britain's King Charles III, revealing that they are 15th cousins. This surprising link traces back to Scottish nobility, with both figures sharing a common ancestor in John Stuart, the third Earl of Lennox. Trump's excitement over this discovery was shared on social media, where he humorously expressed his desire to live in Buckingham Palace. The article also highlights Trump's broader royal connections, including ties to Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, and notes that he is not the only US president with royal ancestry. Explore the intriguing details of this royal family connection.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 29, 2026, 06:23 IST

A Royal Connection Unveiled

Recent genealogical research has revealed that US President Donald Trump and King Charles III of Britain are distantly related, as reported by a media outlet. The two are said to be 15th cousins, both tracing their lineage back to European nobility, specifically to Scotland.

Upon learning of this connection, Trump shared his enthusiasm on Truth Social, stating, “Wow, that’s nice. I’ve always wanted to live in Buckingham Palace!!! I’ll talk to the King and Queen about this in a few minutes!!!”

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The genealogical link reportedly traces back to Trump's maternal side in Scotland, connecting him to noble families associated with the British monarchy. Central to this connection is John Stuart, the third Earl of Lennox, who is recognized as a shared ancestor. His lineage extends through his son Matthew, who became the second husband of Mary, Queen of Scots.

Mary and her spouse were the parents of King James I of England, establishing a royal lineage that eventually leads to King Charles III. Trump's ancestry continues through Lady Helen and the Earl of Sutherland, whose daughter Lady Jane married the chief of Clan Mackay. Their son, Donald Mackay, became the first Lord Reay, establishing a lineage that includes the Mackay and McLeod families.

Mary Anne MacLeod of Lewis, a descendant from this line, immigrated to the United States in 1930 and later wed Fred Trump. Their son, Donald Trump, was born in 1946, linking him to King Charles III as distant relatives.

Furthermore, the media outlet noted that Trump's ancestry also connects him to royal families in Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. Interestingly, he is not the only US president with royal connections; former President George H.W. Bush was found to be a 13th cousin of Queen Elizabeth II, with roots tracing back to the 1400s. Additionally, both Trump and Hillary Clinton are believed to share descent from John of Gaunt, the son of King Edward III of England.