The Washington National Cathedral recently hosted a service where Right Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde made a heartfelt appeal to President Donald Trump. The Episcopal Bishop of Washington urged Trump to show compassion to LGBTQ+ individuals and migrants.
Her plea came in the wake of sweeping executive actions signed by the new president within his first 24 hours in office. These orders have sparked intense debate and raised concerns about their impact on marginalized communities.

A Call for Compassion
During the service, Bishop Budde directly addressed President Trump in her sermon. She said, “In the name of our God, I ask you to have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now.”
Budde highlighted the fears of LGBTQ+ children and their families, underscoring the challenges they face. She also drew attention to the contributions of undocumented immigrants in various essential industries.

“The people who pick our crops, clean our office buildings, labor in poultry farms, and wash dishes after we eat,” she said. “The vast majority of immigrants are not criminals.”
The bishopโs emotional appeal extended to those fleeing war zones and persecution. She implored the president to create a welcoming environment for those in need.
Executive Actions and Policy Shifts
Shortly after his inauguration, President Trump signed 25 executive orders, many of which directly impacted LGBTQ+ rights and immigration policies. One of the most controversial orders declared an official policy recognizing “two s3xes, male and female.”
The directive mandated the removal of all federal materials promoting gender ideology. Advocacy groups expressed concern about the rollback of protections for transgender individuals.

Immigration policies were another major focus of the new administration. Orders included restricting birthright citizenship and intensifying border security measures.
The administration also directed the Justice Department to investigate and counter any state or local actions hindering federal immigration enforcement.
Public Reaction and Controversy
President Trump’s response to Bishop Buddeโs sermon was far from empathetic. After the service, he dismissed it, saying, “not too exciting,” and added, “They could do much better.”
He later took to social media to criticize Budde, labeling her a “Radical Left hard line Trump hater.” Trump accused her of delivering a sermon that lacked grace and focused too much on political rhetoric.

This exchange has fueled a broader conversation about the role of faith leaders in addressing social and political issues. The polarized reactions reflect the deep divisions within the country.
A Revealing Moment
During the service, an unscripted moment further underscored the tension. Trump was seen leaning over to Vice President JD Vance, whispering, “Can you believe it? … Vile.”
This comment, interpreted by a professional lip reader, offered a glimpse into the presidentโs candid reaction to the bishopโs plea.
The executive orders signed within Trumpโs first day in office included a directive labeled “restoring biological truth to the federal government.” This policy recognized only two genders and aimed to reinforce traditional interpretations of s3x-based rights and protections.

The immigration-focused orders emphasized securing borders and limiting access for undocumented migrants. These included provisions aimed at protecting the nationโs “territorial integrity” and addressing illegal immigration.
Bishop Buddeโs heartfelt plea contrasted sharply with Trumpโs blunt and dismissive response. The tension highlights the ongoing struggle to find common ground on deeply divisive social and political issues.
This incident has become a symbol of the challenges in addressing LGBTQ+ rights and immigration in the current political climate. As the administration advances its agenda, voices like Budde’s emphasize the importance of compassion and understanding.
Feature Image Credit: (CBS News)