Trump and His Allies Slam Bishop's Call for ‘Mercy’ at Prayer Service

Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde has come under fire from President Trump and his allies after calling for “mercy” during a prayer service at Washington National Cathedral. With Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, Vice President Vance, and Second Lady Usha Vance in attendance, Budde urged the administration to show compassion toward immigrants, LGBTQ individuals, and other vulnerable groups, many of whom she said are now living in fear.

Trump later criticized Budde on Truth Social, calling her remarks “nasty,” “uninspiring,” and “political.” His press secretary accused the bishop of “weaponizing the pulpit” and demanded an apology. Conservative commentators and lawmakers echoed the attacks, with some mocking Budde’s appearance and others labeling her a “radical leftist.”

Despite the backlash, Budde, the first woman to lead the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, defended her sermon, saying it was a call for compassion. “I am not going to apologize for asking for mercy for others,” she said. The controversy comes amid Trump’s executive actions targeting transgender rights and immigration, moves that have further polarized the political landscape.

In her plea for mercy, Budde reminded listeners of the Christian call to justice, compassion, and love. Echoing the teachings of Christ, she emphasized that true leadership involves lifting up the most vulnerable and advocating for those without a voice. “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy,” Budde said, paraphrasing scripture to underline her message that mercy is not a political statement but a moral imperative.