President Donald Trump criticized Mariann Edgar Budde, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, for her politically charged remarks during an interfaith service at the Washington National Cathedral. The service took place the day after Trump's inauguration and included pleas for mercy towards marginalized groups in the country.
Budde urged the President to show compassion towards LGBTQ children and immigrants, emphasizing that the majority of immigrants are law-abiding individuals seeking refuge. She also highlighted the fears of families facing separation due to immigration policies.
In response, Trump took to social media platform Truth Social to denounce Budde's statements, labeling her as a 'Radical Left hard line Trump hater.' He criticized her for not acknowledging crimes committed by illegal immigrants and deemed her performance as lacking in grace and intelligence.
Additionally, Rep. Andy Barr, an Episcopalian who supports Trump, expressed disappointment in Budde's remarks, accusing her of politicizing the prayer service and suggesting that her criticisms were unwarranted.
Budde, known for her opposition to Trump, has previously called for his replacement in a social media video from 2020.
The incident underscores the ongoing tensions between religious leaders and the Trump administration, highlighting differing perspectives on social and political issues within the Episcopal Church.
