This article describes some fascinating moments from the recent National Prayer Service, including the lip-reader’s analysis of what the Trump family whispered to each other during Reverend Mariann Edgar Budde’s sermon. During the service, Budde made a passionate plea for President Trump to show mercy to marginalized groups like LGBTQ+ individuals and immigrants, highlighting the fear many of them were experiencing. Trump’s family, including his sons Eric and Don Jr., as well as his wife, Melania, were seen reacting to the sermon in various ways.
The lip-reader, Jeremy Freeman, described how Eric Trump and others exchanged words throughout the sermon, often expressing disbelief or commenting on the remarks. For example, Tiffany Trump reportedly said, “Can you believe it?” in response to Budde’s remarks about the fears LGBTQ+ people and immigrants face. At one point, Donald Trump himself was seen whispering to Melania in response to the sermon, with him asking, “Can you believe it?”
In the aftermath, Reverend Budde defended her words, emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding for vulnerable groups. However, President Trump later criticized her comments on his Truth Social platform, calling her “not compelling or smart” and accusing her of bringing politics into the service inappropriately. This back-and-forth between Trump and Budde has sparked further discussion around the intersection of religion, politics, and social issues.
What are your thoughts on the events described here? Do you think the responses from Trump and his family reflect a broader political stance, or are they more personal reactions to the sermon?
