Should Right Reverend Mariann Edgar Budd’s speech be condemned?

Awaiting Vote
Bill Summary

H.Res. 59 is a resolution that expresses the sentiment amongst the House of Representatives that the Right Reverend Mariann Edgar Budd, who spoke at the National Prayer Service on January 21st, 2025, used her position at the service in an act of political activism rather than a nonpartisan religious message. The resolution highlights that the National Prayer Service traditionally affirms national dependence on God and supports the new President and Vice President. This resolution condemns the actions of Reverend Mariann Edgar Budd as using the service to portray a political stance rather than as a religious fixture. Sponsor: Rep. Josh Brecheen (Republican, Oklahoma, District 2)
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Opponents say

•    "As committed women of faith, we, the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, offer our deep gratitude and express our support for your words to President Donald Trump during the post-inauguration prayer service at the National Cathedral earlier this week. You spoke faithfully, expressing love and concern for the most vulnerable among us, proclaiming the Gospel in its most clear form. You did not hesitate to speak truth to power. No one should oppose a cry for mercy and no cry for mercy should go unheard. But like many in our country who have done so in times of strife, those in power attack the truth-tellers. Your words provide hope, and your leadership inspires all who seek justice and mercy." Sisters of Mercy


•    "An Oklahoma congressman introduced a House Resolution declaring Bishop Budde’s sermon a “distorted message” and “political activism.” Americans are getting way too comfortable with politicians dictating faith." Source: Rep. Mickey Dollens (Democrat, Oklahoma, District 93)


•    "Bishop Budde’s words and actions are consistent with many faith leaders over the centuries and today who have provided voice in the call for justice. The voice of faith leaders must be heard in the public square calling truth to power in all times. We commend the courage and wisdom of Bishop Budde and other faith leaders who bring a message of justice and hope for the oppressed…Faith leaders must be able to speak freely from the convictions of their faith, uncensored by threats of political retribution, following in the prophetic tradition, calling for justice in their communities. People of all faiths must be able to express their faith without fear of government harassment, coercion, or duress." Source: United Church of Christ

Proponents say

•    "Today, I introduced a resolution to fully condemn the distorted message that was preached at President Trump during the National Prayer Service on Monday. I strongly urge my colleagues to act quickly on this resolution to show President Trump that the sermon given is not reflective of the faith community at large…The bishop's radical lecture was nothing more than a narcissistic, woke tirade. Instead of embracing this sacred moment to unite us in prayer, she chose to impose her extremist ideology, rendering the National Prayer Service completely inappropriate and, quite frankly, deranged." Source: Rep. Josh Brecheen (Republican, Oklahoma, District 2)

 

•    "The radical Bishop who spoke at yesterday’s National Prayer Service 100% owes President Trump an apology. Politicizing and weaponizing the pulpit is wholly inappropriate." Source: Rep. Andrew Clyde (Republican, Georgia, District 9)


•    "I can’t tell you what a just wet blanket that threw over the whole event. Honestly, there were a lot of things I didn’t necessarily care for that were a part of parts of it, when she started her servant, if you will, and went through it, I kinda started feeling like this is going in a bad direction. And then, it was like, she just addressed the President, and she just went right after him with these statements that were just unfounded, almost like allegations that he is breeding fear into the hearts of every person. It was just ridiculous. Listen, Everyone sitting around me, other members of Congress, as we watched all of this unfold, we were horrified that all of this happened." Source: Rep. Mark Harris (Republican, North Carolina, District 8)