The Bishop of Washington, Right Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde, has responded to Donald Trump’s dismissive five-word comment after she passionately urged him to “have mercy” on LGBTQ+ individuals and migrants during his first week back in the White House.
Following his return to office, President Trump wasted no time implementing controversial policies, including one declaring there are “only two genders” and others restricting migrant entry into the United States. In response to these actions, Right Rev. Budde took to the pulpit of the Washington National Cathedral to make a heartfelt plea.
“Mr. President, millions have put their trust in you,” she began, referencing Trump’s inauguration speech, in which he acknowledged feeling the “providential hand of a loving God.” She continued, “In the name of our God, I ask you to have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now.”
Her address painted a vivid picture of those most affected by Trump’s policies: LGBTQ+ youth who fear for their safety, undocumented workers who labor tirelessly in essential industries, and immigrants fleeing persecution in search of safety. She emphasized, “They may not be citizens or have the proper documentation, but the vast majority of immigrants are not criminals.”
However, Trump was quick to dismiss the bishop’s emotional appeal. Describing the service as “not too exciting,” he added, “They could do much better.”
In an interview with CNN, Right Rev. Budde expressed her disappointment at the president’s reaction. “I was reminding us all that the people who are frightened in our country, the two groups that I mentioned, are our fellow human beings,” she said.
The bishop explained that her intention was to encourage Trump to lead with compassion. “I wanted to say there is room for mercy. There is room for a broader compassion,” she said. She called for understanding toward some of the most vulnerable people in society, reminding the nation that they are “our neighbors and our friends.”
While Trump’s remarks were brief and dismissive, the bishop’s words continue to resonate with many who hope for a more inclusive and compassionate approach from the administration.
