Bishop Refuses to Apologize for Plea to Trump, Emphasizes Compassion

Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, who urged former President Donald Trump to show compassion for marginalized groups during the National Cathedral prayer service, has made it clear she will not apologize for her remarks.

In an interview with Time magazine, Budde expressed her unwavering stance, saying, “I am not going to apologize for asking for mercy for others.”

Her remarks at Tuesday's service, where Trump was seated in the front pew, sparked backlash from the former president. In a post on Truth Social, Trump criticized her speech, calling it “nasty” and labeling her a “Radical Left hard-line Trump hater.”

Trump also demanded an apology, claiming that Budde brought politics into the prayer service in an “ungracious” manner.

“The so-called Bishop who spoke at the National Prayer Service on Tuesday morning was a Radical Left hard-line Trump hater. She brought her church into the World of politics in a very ungracious way. She was nasty in tone and not compelling or smart,” Trump wrote.

He further accused Budde of failing to address issues he deemed more pressing, such as alleged crimes by undocumented migrants. “It is a giant crime wave that is taking place in the USA,” Trump added. He also criticized the service itself, describing it as “boring and uninspiring.”

Budde, however, rejected Trump’s characterization. “I don’t hate President Trump. I strive not to hate anyone, and I dare say that I am not of the ‘radical left’ either, whatever that means. That is not who I am,” she stated in the interview with Time.

Responding to Trump’s claim that she is not effective in her role as bishop, Budde said, “That is for other people to judge, and so he is certainly entitled to his opinion.”

During the prayer service, Budde made a direct plea to Trump, urging him to consider the fears and struggles of various vulnerable groups. “I ask you to have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared. There are gay, lesbian, transgender children, Democratic, Republican, independent families — some who fear for their lives,” she said.

Her message extended to undocumented immigrants, whom she described as hardworking contributors to American society.

“The people who pick our crops and clean our office buildings, who labor in poultry farms and meatpacking plants, who wash the dishes after we eat in restaurants and work the night shifts in hospitals — they may not be citizens or have the proper documentation, but the vast majority of immigrants are not criminals,” Budde stated during the service.

She emphasized that many undocumented immigrants pay taxes and actively participate in religious communities across the United States. She highlighted the fear experienced by immigrant families, particularly children, who worry about the possibility of being separated from their parents.

Budde also called on Trump to extend compassion to people fleeing war zones and persecution. She urged the administration to recognize the humanity of those seeking asylum and to adopt policies that reflect mercy and understanding.

Her sermon underscored the importance of addressing public fears and fostering unity during a divisive political climate.

Trump’s social media criticism extended to her handling of the prayer service itself. “She is not very good at her job! She and her church owe the public an apology!” he wrote. Despite this, Budde remained firm in her commitment to speaking out for compassion and justice.

In her interview with Time, she explained that her intention was not to provoke but to inspire empathy and dialogue.

Budde acknowledged the fears many Americans feel about Trump’s presidency, citing concerns from LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrants, and families from diverse political backgrounds. She described the climate of fear as a significant issue that leaders should address with compassion and understanding.

When asked if she hoped her remarks would encourage others to push back on Trump’s policies, Budde responded affirmatively. “I would love to have people present another alternative, yes, and to bring compassion and breadth into our public discourse,” she said.

She reiterated the need for leaders to focus on building a society grounded in justice, mercy, and unity.

The National Cathedral prayer service, traditionally held the day after a presidential inauguration, serves as a symbolic moment for leaders to call for national healing and reflection.

Budde’s remarks, however, highlighted the deep divisions within the country and her commitment to addressing issues affecting marginalized communities.

Despite the controversy, Budde remains resolute in her message. “I believe that leaders have a moral responsibility to advocate for those who are vulnerable and to speak truth to power,” she told Time.

Her decision to confront Trump during the service underscores her dedication to these principles, even in the face of political backlash.