During the inaugural prayer service at the Washington National Cathedral, the Right Rev. Mariann Budde, the Episcopal bishop of Washington, made a direct appeal to President Donald Trump. She urged him to have mercy on the LGBTQ+ community and undocumented migrant workers, referencing Trump's belief in divine protection. Budde emphasized the importance of compassion and unity in the face of recent policy changes affecting these marginalized groups.
Despite the call for mercy, President Trump expressed dissatisfaction with the service upon his return to the White House, stating that it could have been better. The service, attended by Trump, Vice President JD Vance, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth, focused on national unity and community across diversity.
