Watch moment Donald Trump is told to ‘have mercy’ on LGBT people and migrants by woke bishop in toe-curling lecture
Watch the moment Donald Trump was left exasperated during a prayer service at Washington National Cathedral as a bishop directly confronted him over LGBT rights and immigration policies.
Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde used the interfaith service on Trump’s first full day back in office to make an impassioned plea for mercy towards vulnerable communities.
The Episcopal Bishop of Washington addressed the president, who was seated in the front row alongside First Lady Melania Trump and Vice President JD Vance with his wife Usha.
The remarkable confrontation came just after Trump had signed executive orders condemning “gender ideology” and declaring a policy recognising only two sexes.
“Let me make one final plea, Mr President,” Bishop Budde said. “In the name of our god, I ask you to have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now.”
She directly addressed LGBT concerns, stating: “There are gay, lesbian and transgender children in democratic, republican and independent families, some who fear for their lives.”
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The bishop then defended immigrants, saying: “They may not be citizens or have the proper documentation, but the vast majority of immigrants are not criminals.”
“They pay taxes and are good neighbours. They are faithful members of our churches and mosques, synagogues and temples,” she added.
Trump turned away and looked over his shoulder during the bishop’s remarks about immigrants, before examining the booklet he was holding.
Vice President Vance appeared visibly uncomfortable, raising his eyebrows and exchanging glances with his wife when LGBT rights were mentioned.
At another point during the sermon, Vance whispered to Mrs Vance after the bishop’s comments about immigration.
The president and vice president shared a wordless exchange of looks during the address, with Trump also spending time looking down at the floor.
Both men maintained stern expressions throughout the service as Bishop Budde delivered her message.
When asked about the service afterwards, Trump told reporters: “They could have done better.”
Bishop Budde has previously criticised Trump during his first term, particularly over his 2020 photo opportunity at St. John’s Church near the White House.
At that time, she condemned Trump’s actions as “antithetical to the teachings of Jesus” after peaceful protesters were cleared from the area.
Speaking during Black Lives Matter protests in 2020, the bishop had stated: “I’ve given up speaking to President Trump. We need to replace President Trump.”
The bishop’s diocesan website notes her advocacy for racial equity, immigration reform, and LGBTQ+ inclusion.