President Donald Trump on Wednesday called for an apology from the Episcopal bishop of Washington after she used a prayer service during his inauguration to make a direct appeal,
urging him to show compassion toward the LGBTQ+ community and undocumented migrant workers in the United States.
Former President Donald Trump issued a public statement on Wednesday, calling for an apology from the Episcopal Bishop of Washington, Mariann Edgar Budde, after she made a direct appeal during his inauguration prayer service.
Bishop Budde had used her invocation to urge President Trump to show compassion toward marginalized communities, including the LGBTQ+ community and undocumented migrant workers in the United States.
Trump, who had been sworn in for his second term just days prior, expressed his displeasure with the bishop’s remarks.
In a written statement, he stated, “It was highly inappropriate for a religious leader to use the sacred moment of my inauguration to push a political agenda.
I strongly believe in the rights of all Americans, but such a call for political change should not have been made during a prayer service.”
The controversy arose when, during the inauguration’s prayer, Bishop Budde made a pointed plea for empathy toward the
LGBTQ+ community and migrant workers. She asked for “a government that reflects the values of compassion, justice, and inclusion.”
“While I support religious freedom, the bishop crossed a line. The prayer service was intended to be a moment of unity and reflection, not a platform for political advocacy,” Trump added.
Bishop Budde, who has long been an advocate for social justice, has yet to respond directly to Trump’s call for an apology.
However, she has consistently emphasized the role of faith leaders in speaking out for those who are vulnerable and marginalized.
The incident has sparked a wider debate about the intersection of religion and politics, especially when it comes to public figures using religious platforms for advocacy.
While some praise Bishop Budde for her courage in addressing important issues, others agree with Trump’s stance, claiming that the inauguration ceremony should have been free of political statements.
As the dust settles, the ongoing discussion raises questions about how religion and politics will continue to intersect in future political events and public ceremonies.
