Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde of Washington used a prayer service at the National Cathedral to directly challenge President Donald Trump, criticizing his policies on immigrants and transgender rights. The service, held after Trump’s second-term inauguration, became an unexpected platform for the bishop to call for compassion and mercy.

Addressing Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance, and their families, Bishop Budde urged Trump to reconsider policies like limiting birthright citizenship and making it harder for transgender individuals to obtain accurate federal documents. She spoke directly to Trump, asking for mercy for marginalized groups such as LGBTQ children and immigrant families.

The bishop also highlighted the positive contributions of immigrants, stating they are often hard-working members of communities who contribute significantly to society. Some members of Trump’s family appeared moved, while others remained indifferent during the sermon.

After the service, Trump dismissed the sermon with a brief comment, calling it “not the most exciting service” and suggesting it could have been better. Conservative figures quickly defended Trump, criticizing the bishop’s political statements during a religious service.

Progressive voices praised Bishop Budde’s comments, with some calling her sermon brave and powerful. The service, intended to unite the country, instead sparked a public debate over Trump’s controversial policies, reflecting the ongoing divisions in America.

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