The President of the United States, Donald Trump, directed criticism at the Episcopal bishop of Washington, Mariann Budde, calling her “nasty” and demanding that she apologize. The controversy arose after the sermon that the bishop gave at the National Prayer Service, at the Washington National Cathedral.
During her speech, Mariann Budde called on the president to show greater empathy towards LGBTQ+ communities and undocumented immigrant workers. Budde addressed Trump directly, stating: “Millions trusted you. And, as he mentioned to the country yesterday, he felt the providential hand of a loving God. In the name of this God, I ask you to show mercy to those in our country who now live in terror.”
Trump’s response was quick, having used social media to criticize the bishop. The president described her as a “Left-Wing Radical who hates Trump” and accused her of using the church to promote political positions.
Mariann Budde stood her ground and refused to apologize, explaining that her intention was not political, but a call for compassion and solidarity, especially towards the most vulnerable.
