In a striking moment during his presidency, Donald Trump shared his thoughts after attending a sermon that called for compassion toward illegal immigrants and transgender children.
His reaction? A succinct and sharp, “They can do much better.”
Speaking with reporters at the White House, Trump didn’t mince words about the sermon delivered by Mariann Budde, the Episcopal Bishop of Washington.
“What did you think? Did you like it? Did you find it exciting?” he quipped.
He concluded with a dismissive, “I didn’t think it was a good service.”
Bishop Budde’s Bold Message Sparks Backlash
The sermon, which took place during the National Prayer Service on Trump’s first full day back in office, quickly became the center of controversy.
Budde, a vocal advocate for social justice issues, used the platform to address pressing topics, including immigration and LGBTQ+ rights.
She urged Trump to show mercy to undocumented immigrants, particularly those with children, and claimed that transgender kids were now living in fear due to his return to the Oval Office.
Sitting in the front row with First Lady Melania Trump, Trump remained stoic as Budde called for understanding.
Her plea included an emotional appeal for immigrants who work in agriculture, healthcare, and hospitality industries, emphasizing their contributions to society.
“They might not be citizens or have the proper documentation, but the vast majority are not criminals,” she said.
Conservative Leaders Respond
Budde’s remarks didn’t sit well with conservatives, many of whom accused her of politicizing the service.
Congressman Mike Collins even suggested on social media that she should be “added to the deportation list.”
Ohio Senator Bernie Moreno criticized her sermon as an insult to legal immigrants, stating, “If you don’t have borders, then you don’t have a country.”
Conservative commentator Charlie Kirk also weighed in, calling the sermon an “embarrassment.”
He argued that Budde squandered an opportunity to deliver a unifying Christian message at the start of a new administration.
Bishop Budde’s History of Advocacy
This wasn’t the first time Bishop Budde has clashed with Trump.
Known for her progressive views, she has been outspoken on issues like racial equity, immigration reform, and LGBTQ+ rights.
Her past criticism of Trump included condemning his photo op with a Bible outside an Episcopal church during the Black Lives Matter protests in 2020.
At the time, she described his actions as “antithetical to the teachings of Jesus.”
Budde’s ministry is deeply rooted in activism, with her diocesan website highlighting her efforts to address justice concerns.
However, her outspoken nature has also made her a polarizing figure, especially among conservative circles.
A Divisive Moment at the National Prayer Service
The sermon, while intended to deliver a message of compassion, ended up amplifying divisions.
Some praised Budde for speaking truth to power, while others felt her words were an unwelcome political tirade.
As the debate continues, one thing is clear—this National Prayer Service will not be forgotten anytime soon.
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