Queen Elizabeth II engaged with 13 sitting U.S. presidents during her reign, from Harry S. Truman to Joe Biden. These encounters occurred in Washington, D.C., and the United Kingdom. Yet, one president eluded a personal meeting: Lyndon B. Johnson, the 36th U.S. leader, who served from 1963 to 1969.

Two Key Missed Opportunities at State Funerals

The paths of Queen Elizabeth II and President Johnson nearly crossed twice during major state funerals, but health issues intervened both times.

First, following John F. Kennedy’s assassination in November 1963, Johnson assumed the presidency. The Queen, pregnant with her fourth child, Prince Edward, received medical advice against traveling to Washington for the funeral. Prince Philip attended on her behalf, representing the royal family.

Less than two years later, in January 1965, Winston Churchill’s state funeral in London drew over 100 world leaders. Johnson, fresh from his inauguration and battling illness after exposure to cold weather, followed his doctors’ orders and stayed home. London’s frigid conditions posed additional risks.

Political Tensions and Limited Travel

Beyond these incidents, Johnson’s presidency focused heavily on the Vietnam War, limiting his European trips. He visited the continent only twice, briefly, prioritizing allies supporting U.S. efforts in Vietnam.

British Prime Minister Harold Wilson, an advocate for strong transatlantic ties, met Johnson multiple times. However, the U.K.’s refusal to commit troops strained relations, reducing opportunities for a royal summit.

Princess Margaret’s White House Visit

While the Queen missed out, her sister, Princess Margaret, hosted by President Johnson and First Lady Lady Bird Johnson at the White House in November 1965, enjoyed a memorable evening. The event provided a welcome respite amid Vietnam’s challenges, with guests reporting a lively atmosphere and strong rapport.

The Queen’s Lasting Bonds with U.S. Leaders

Queen Elizabeth II’s first meeting with a sitting president came in 1951, as Princess Elizabeth, when she visited Harry S. Truman in Washington and stayed at Blair House during White House renovations.

Her final state visit to the U.S. occurred in May 2007, marking Jamestown’s 400th anniversary. George W. Bush and Laura Bush welcomed her and Prince Philip to the White House.

Joe Biden, the 46th president, met the Queen at Windsor Castle with Jill Biden shortly before her passing. During Donald Trump’s 2019 state visit, she hosted a banquet, stating: “Visits by American Presidents always remind us of the close and longstanding friendship between the United Kingdom and the United States, and I am so glad that we have another opportunity to demonstrate the immense importance that both our countries attach to our relationship.”

These interactions thrived due to the Queen’s iconic status, engaging personality, and vast knowledge of global affairs from decades of leader meetings. Her discretion ensured private discussions remained confidential, fostering trust and advancing U.K. interests.