Donald Trump is not one to mince words. He is demanding an apology from an Episcopal Bishop, describing her as a far-left so-called Bishop. Bishop Marion Budded spoke at the National Prayer Breakfast, urging Trump to show mercy to transgender people. Her remarks were made in an inappropriate setting.
A Clash of Ideals
Episcopal Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde’s remarks at the National Prayer Service have sparked outrage among former President Donald Trump. Trump labeled Budde a “far-left, so-called bishop” and demanded apologies from her church, accusing her of being a “Radical Left hardline Trump hater.” This confrontation highlights the ongoing debate about religious leaders expressing political views. Budde’s critique focused on Trump’s policies, particularly those affecting immigrants and the LGBT+ community.
During the service, Budde pleaded with Trump to have mercy on LGBT+ children and immigrant families, eliciting both support and criticism. Liberal commentators praised Budde’s courage in speaking truth to power, while Trump’s allies, including Robert Jeffress, chastised her approach and accused her of politicizing the church.
Any member of the clergy advocating for the idea that a child can be born in the “wrong body” does not truly believe in God.
God makes NO mistakes!
— Jarrett 🇺🇸 (@whoismrzero) January 22, 2025
A Divisive Response
Budde used various media platforms, including CNN, to highlight the human impact of political policies on marginalized groups. Her appearance exacerbated the fears of LGBTQ+ people and immigrant families. Trump maintained his stance, dismissing the service as uninspiring and dull. Budde’s appeal emphasized the role of political and spiritual leaders in cultivating a compassionate society.
“You have felt the providential hand of a loving God. In the name of our God, I ask you to have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now.” – Right Rev. Mariann Budde
Budde, who was born in New Jersey, rejected deportation calls while reaffirming her American citizenship. Trump’s informal faith adviser joined the fray, escalating an already tense debate about the intersection of religion and politics.
Tensions at The Crossroads of Faith and Politics
Budde’s appeal at the traditional, typically apolitical National Prayer Service elicited a mixed response. Trump’s request for Budde’s apology sparked a larger discussion about religious leaders’ ethical engagement in political discourse. Her remarks, which emphasized that the majority of immigrants follow the law and contribute positively to society, sparked further discussion about the church’s role in advocacy.
“The vast majority of immigrants are not criminals. They pay taxes and are good neighbors…may I ask you to have mercy Mr. President on those in our communities whose children fear that their parents will be taken away.” – Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde
The dialogue at the intersection of faith and politics is still being scrutinized, raising questions about how religious institutions deal with political tensions in today’s America. As events unfold, the nation observes the delicate balance between speaking truth to power and upholding traditional separations of church and state.
Sources:
- Brave bishop tells Trump to his face ‘Have mercy on trans children and immigrants – they are scared of you’
- Trump demands an apology from bishop who asked him to ‘have mercy’ on LGBTQ+ people and migrants
