Bishop Defends Plea for Mercy on Immigrants, Trans People
Following a national prayer service where she implored President Trump to show mercy towards marginalized groups including LGBTQ+ youth and immigrants, Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde refused to apologize for her remarks. Trump subsequently attacked Budde on social media, criticizing her sermon and demanding an apology. Budde’s plea highlighted the stark contrast between the Episcopal Church’s inclusive stance and Trump’s policies on immigration and LGBTQ+ rights. Her refusal to recant her message underscores the ongoing tension between religious leaders and the Trump administration.