Washington bishop defies Trump's criticism after appealing for mercy.

247 - Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde of the Washington National Cathedral became the center of controversy after directly confronting US President Donald Trump during a sermon on January 21. In an interview with NPR, Budde reaffirmed that there is no reason to apologize, despite fierce criticism from the Republican and his allies. "I don't feel there's a need to apologize for a plea for mercy," she declared on the program All Things Considered, according to NPR. Folha de S. Paul.

The clash began when Budde used her speech at the National Prayer Service to defend historically marginalized communities targeted by Trump, including LGBTQIA+ children, immigrant workers, and undocumented people. "There are gay, lesbian, transgender children in Democratic, Republican, and Independent families—some who fear for their lives," Budde said, while appealing for compassion from the president. The bishop also highlighted the situation of migrants, stating that "the vast majority are not criminals" and deserve to be treated with dignity.

Trump's reaction was swift. On his Truth Social platform, he criticized Budde, labeling her a "radical leftist" who hates him. The president also called her "nasty," claiming her speech "was neither convincing nor intelligent." The controversy was intensified by Republican allies, with one congressman suggesting that Budde, an American citizen, be placed "on the deportation list."

Despite the attacks, the bishop maintained her stance. "I decided to ask him as gently as possible to have mercy," she stated. During the interview with NPR, she defended the role of compassion in a diverse country like the United States and reiterated that she does not regret her words. "To be united as a country with so much richness of diversity, we need mercy, compassion, and empathy," she said.

Budde acknowledged the polarization her speech generated, lamenting that the debate had been dominated by "outrage" instead of mutual respect. "I regret that it caused this response, but no, I will not apologize for what I said," she stated. The religious leader also reinforced the need for Trump to reconsider his rhetoric regarding vulnerable communities. "Millions have placed their trust in you," Budde declared in her sermon. "I ask that you have mercy on the people in our country who are frightened right now."