Trump Demands Apology from Bishop After Call for Mercy in Cathedral Sermon

Bishop Mariann Budde urged President Trump to show compassion for vulnerable groups during a National Cathedral prayer service, prompting backlash from the president and his supporters.

Episcopal Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde addressed President Trump directly during a sermon, calling for mercy toward immigrants and LGBTQ individuals fearing his policies.
Trump, visibly upset during the service, later criticized Budde on Truth Social, labeling her as 'nasty' and 'not very smart,' and demanded an apology from her and the church.
The sermon came after Trump signed executive orders targeting trans rights, birthright citizenship, and diversity initiatives, which Budde described as harmful and divisive.
Budde's remarks have drawn praise for emphasizing Christian values of compassion and empathy, while also sparking backlash from Trump supporters and conservative commentators.
Budde has stated she will not apologize, defending her appeal for mercy as a necessary moral and spiritual challenge to the president's policies.

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