Trump state visit II has so far been like The Truman Show.
A lavish production and spectacle revolving around just one man, while outside the set of Windsor Castle, beyond the big walls put up to fence it in, the world goes on.
The question is – has it been worth all the enormous effort and expense?
Britain’s constitutional monarchy has mustered all its ceremonial might to pull off an extraordinary show.
Latest updates on Trump’s state visit
Donald Trump has seemed genuinely moved by the performance put on by a cast of hundreds entirely for his benefit.
But there has seemed something missing – people.
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Previous state visits have always involved the monarch’s subjects, lining the route as the honoured guest is transported by state coach.
On Wednesday, plenty of deer roamed Windsor Great Park, but not the public.
There was good reason for this royal Truman Show.
Like Truman Burbank, Donald Trump could not be exposed to the reality of life outside the castle fencing and walls.
Such a thin-skinned president might react adversely, it was decided by those organising this visit.
We will get a first sense of what Britain gets in return for all this on Thursday, the business end of this state visit.
What deals have been struck by the tech and business titans the US president has brought with him?
Will there be any sign that he has moderated his positions on Ukraine and Gaza? Will he make concessions to the UK on trade?
Read more:
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The real world starts crowding back in on Trump on Thursday afternoon when he faces journalists at a closing news conference.
Two words threaten to upset the president’s mood. Jeffrey and Epstein.
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The gathering storm surrounding the infamous paedophile soured the mood ahead of this visit and claimed the scalp of Britain’s ambassador in Washington, Lord Mandelson.
Could the scandal also upset its outcome?
