During President Donald Trump’s inaugural prayer service, Episcopal Bishop Mariann Budde delivered remarks that sparked backlash. Instead of solely calling for unity, Budde addressed LGBTQ+ rights, immigration, and other political issues, highlighting tensions between faith leaders and politics.

Budde urged Trump to show compassion for undocumented immigrants and marginalized communities. “You have felt the providential hand of a loving God. In His name, I ask you to have mercy on those who are scared,” she declared. She emphasized that many immigrants contribute to essential industries and called for protections for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Trump swiftly criticized the sermon, calling it “boring and uninspiring.” On social media, he labeled Budde a “Radical Left hardliner” and accused her of pushing a political agenda. Representative Josh Brecheen (R-OK) walked out in protest, stating the pulpit had been misused for liberal advocacy.

Budde had previously clashed with Trump, notably condemning his 2020 Bible photo-op at St. John’s Church. The controversy raises broader questions about the role of faith leaders in politics. While some see Budde’s remarks as moral duty, others argue they disrupted the service’s intended unity. The debate over religion’s place in public discourse continues.