US bishops apologise after White House meeting appears to endorse Trump
Two US Catholic bishops have apologised for meeting Donald Trump after images of them praying with the president were published, prompting concern that the gathering looked like a political endorsement. Milwaukee Archbishop Jeffrey Grob said he had understood the meeting to be private, and that some members of his congregation felt hurt because of the effects of Trump’s policies.
The meeting took place at the White House on 22 October and was arranged to discuss immigration, visas for international clergy and the exploitation of vulnerable people. The bishops said they had not authorised the release of photos or video; the White House did not directly address their concerns. A survey found that 30% of US Catholics approved of Trump’s performance, down from 47% when he returned to office in 2025, as the 3 November midterm elections approach.
In short
- Two bishops regret a White House meeting with Trump.
- They say images made it appear political.
- Catholic approval of Trump fell to 30%.
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The case for
The bishops could reasonably argue that meeting the president offered a chance to raise urgent concerns about immigration, clergy visas and the exploitation of vulnerable people directly with those making policy. A private meeting and prayer need not signal political support, and their apology recognises that the released images nevertheless caused hurt and a misleading impression.
The case against
Catholics concerned about the meeting could argue that public images of bishops praying with the president risked lending religious authority to his administration, especially when its policies have harmed members of their communities. Given the approaching election, they may see public clarity about the meeting and its purpose as important to preserving the Church’s independence and the trust of those affected.
Explained simply
The Catholic Church is led by the pope, while bishops oversee groups of churches in particular areas. In the United States, the bishops’ conference brings church leaders together to discuss issues affecting Catholics and the wider community.
The White House is the president’s official workplace, and meetings there can attract public attention even when intended as private discussions. Immigration and visas for clergy matter to churches that serve migrant communities and rely on priests from abroad.
US Catholics, like other voters, hold a range of political views. Their opinions can matter to candidates because religious communities are part of the electorate ahead of congressional elections, known as midterms.
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Originally published by BBC World as “Catholic bishops apologise for ‘exploited’ Trump meeting”.