Washington D.C.: US President Donald Trump has launched a scathing attack on Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde of Washington, labeling her “nasty” for her remarks made during the inaugural prayer service. Bishop Budde, who is the Episcopal bishop of Washington, had directly appealed to the president to show mercy on the LGBTQ+ community and undocumented migrant workers in the country.
Trump’s Reaction on Truth Social
Trump, taking to his Truth Social platform, criticized Bishop Budde for her tone during the service. He referred to her as a “Radical Left hardline Trump hater” and stated that her remarks were “nasty” and “not compelling or smart.” He further stated that Bishop Budde and her church “owe the public an apology!”
The president’s remarks were made after a sermon in which Budde directly addressed him, urging him to show mercy towards marginalized communities that had been targeted by his policies.
What Did Bishop Budde Say?
In her 15-minute sermon at the Washington National Cathedral, Bishop Budde told the new president, “In the name of our God, I ask you to have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now.” She referenced the LGBTQ+ community, stating that “they are gay, lesbian and transgender children in Democratic, Republican, and independent families, some who fear for their lives.”
Bishop Budde’s remarks came just one day after Trump’s administration signed executive orders that rolled back transgender rights and strengthened immigration policies.
Trump’s Dismissal of the Service
Following the service, when Trump returned to the White House, he downplayed the significance of the sermon, telling reporters, “Not too exciting, was it? I didn’t think it was a good service. They could do much better.” His comments reveal a clear disagreement with Bishop Budde’s message, highlighting the ongoing political divide in the US.
Bishop Budde Under the Spotlight
Bishop Budde’s comments have gone viral on social media, leading to increased attention on her role as the spiritual leader for 86 Episcopal congregations and 10 Episcopal schools in the Columbia District and Maryland counties.
Conclusion
Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde’s public plea for compassion towards vulnerable groups has ignited a public clash with President Trump, sparking both praise and criticism from different quarters. As the 2025 presidency continues to unfold, tensions between Trump and various religious leaders are likely to remain a significant point of discourse in the political landscape.
