The event, traditionally held the morning after a presidential inauguration since 1933, is generally apolitical. However, Budde's comments have sparked controversy due to their political undertones.
During her address at the National Cathedral, Budde invoked her faith to criticize the former president. She stated, "In the name of a loving God, to have mercy on the people in our country who are scared now," highlighting concerns for "gay, lesbian, and transgender children in Democratic, Republican, and Independent families, some who fear for their lives." She further addressed the plight of immigrants, saying, "The vast majority of immigrants are not criminals. They pay taxes and are good neighbors…May I ask you to have mercy Mr. President on those in our communities whose children fear that their parents will be taken away." According to The Gateway Pundit, Budde has previously expressed her disapproval of Trump, notably in an op-ed for The New York Times, where she criticized his use of religious symbols during the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests.
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Trump took to Truth Social to express his discontent with Budde's remarks, describing her as a "Radical Left hard line Trump hater" who inappropriately politicized the church. He criticized her tone and intelligence, stating, "She was nasty in tone, and not compelling or smart." Trump also pointed out her failure to address the issue of illegal migrants, asserting, "She failed to mention the large number of illegal migrants that came into our Country and killed people. Many were deposited from jails and mental institutions. It is a giant crime wave that is taking place in the USA." He concluded by calling the service "very boring and uninspiring," and demanded an apology from Budde and her church.
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Budde's media appearances following the service have been perceived by some as self-promotion at the expense of respect for the presidency and the sanctity of the event. Her previous criticisms of Trump, including her reaction to his handling of the 2020 protests, further underscore the ongoing tension between the former president and certain religious leaders. As the debate continues, questions remain about the role of religious figures in political discourse and the appropriate boundaries of such engagements.