Green Party leader sparks backlash after scheduling rival message during the King’s speech
King Charles III is facing an unexpected political distraction this Christmas after Zack Polanski confirmed he will release his own message at the same time as the King’s traditional broadcast.
Polanski, a senior figure in the left-wing Green Party of England and Wales, has planned his Christmas video to go live at 3:00 pm. That is the exact moment when viewers across Britain usually tune in to watch the monarch’s annual speech. The timing has angered royal supporters, especially given Polanski’s long-standing support for abolishing the monarchy.
Reaction on social media was sharp. One critic described the move as “disrespectful egotistical nonsense,” while another asked bluntly, “Who does he think he is?” Even some users who said they were not monarchists felt the decision crossed a line, calling it unnecessarily disrespectful.
Not everyone agreed. Polanski was praised by supporters on the left, with some describing the move as refreshing and a welcome break from tradition.
According to GB News, Polanski plans to use his message to argue that £476 million of taxpayers’ money, which he claims is being spent on cruelty, should instead be redirected towards a migration system based on compassion, kindness and humanity.
The report added that despite Polanski’s pro-migration stance, polling suggests most Britons want Channel crossings to end. It said more than 41,000 people have crossed so far in 2025, making it the second-worst year on record for illegal arrivals by small boats.
The clash has added a political edge to Christmas Day, a moment usually reserved for the King’s message of reflection and unity.
