Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde made headlines after addressing President Donald Trump at a National Prayer Service this week, urging him to show “mercy” toward the LGBT community and immigrants. The remarks, made in the presence of Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and their spouses, have drawn sharp reactions, including a public rebuke from the former president.
Speaking on The View Wednesday, Budde acknowledged the political undertones of her plea. “How could it not be politicized, right? We’re in a hyper-political climate,” she said, emphasizing that her comments were meant to bring neglected voices into public discourse. Budde’s statement implored Trump to consider the fears of gay, lesbian, and transgender children and to recognize the contributions of immigrants, whom she described as “good neighbors” and taxpayers, not criminals.
Her remarks were met with stoic silence during the service, but Trump later criticized Budde on Truth Social, calling her a “Radical Left hardline Trump hater” who inappropriately politicized the event. Trump’s post reflected his dissatisfaction, stating, “She brought her church into the world of politics in a very ungracious way.”
During her The View appearance, Budde addressed criticism about whether her message might have been more impactful in a private setting. She expressed willingness to meet with Trump one-on-one, saying, “I would welcome that opportunity,” though she added that the invitation would have to come from him.
Budde’s plea included a broader call for compassion, decrying a “culture of contempt” and urging a more respectful public dialogue. While her words resonated with some, they further fueled division in an already polarized environment. Trump dismissed the service altogether, adding to the controversy surrounding the event and her comments.