Trump Announces Nationwide Prayer Event
WASHINGTON — President Trump shared on Thursday that a significant prayer event is set to take place on the National Mall, coinciding with the nation’s 250th anniversary this year. He emphasized the importance of “rededicating America as one nation under God.”
During his comments at the National Prayer Breakfast held at the Washington Hilton, he also highlighted the country’s dedication to religious freedom.
“This morning, I’m thrilled to invite Americans from all walks of life to gather on the National Mall on May 17, 2026, to pray, give thanks, and reaffirm America’s unity under God,” the president announced.
Trump didn’t elaborate on why he selected May 17, though it is notable that prior to the Declaration of Independence, the colonial Congress had designated May 17, 1776, as a national day of fasting and prayer.
This date also falls shortly after many Christian denominations celebrate the Feast of the Ascension of Jesus Christ.
President Trump also noted that the Department of Education is taking measures to safeguard the right to prayer in public schools. “I’m happy to announce that the Department of Education has now released new guidance to protect the right to pray in public schools. That’s a big deal,” Trump stated.
He added, “Now, the Democrats will challenge us, but we will prevail.”
It’s worth mentioning that the Supreme Court ruled in 1962 that mandatory school-sponsored prayer in public schools goes against the First Amendment.
Reflecting on the National Prayer Breakfast, Trump remarked, “This is a wonderful American tradition, and it’s an honor for me to be here again.” He chuckled, “I think I’ve attended almost every single one. It’s tough to say no. I simply don’t have the heart to decline.” He recalled coming to the event one time at 4 a.m. and being reminded he would be speaking at 7 a.m.
Shifting gears, he voiced a prediction about his eternal fate, critiquing the media for misinterpreting a humorous comment regarding his election loss last year. “I really believe this is likely to go well,” he stated. “I may not be perfect, but I’ve accomplished so much.”
In his lengthy speech, Trump expressed strong views about his foreign policy initiatives, military engagements, and critiqued the Democratic Party while defending his Cabinet members.
“They love to call me a dictator. I’m not one. But they certainly acted like dictators, more akin to the Gestapo,” Trump asserted.
He recounted instances of people being arrested for attending church and expressed his commitment to making amends with those affected.
Trump highlighted successes from military operations he authorized, such as the raid on January 3 to apprehend Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and the Christmas Day airstrike against ISIS in Nigeria.
“I specifically instructed Pete—to wait until Christmas Day to act,” he reminisced during a religious service, “and he delivered.” He also praised his administration’s team, claiming it has an “incredible bench.”
When questioned about potentially firing Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, Trump dismissed the notion, referencing her track record on border security and crime.
He commended Attorney General Pam Bondi and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard while defending their roles related to a recent attack on an election center in Fulton County, Georgia.
