U.S. bishops accuse Trump of using them for political gain ahead of the midterm elections

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops stated that a video showing bishops praying for President Donald Trump was not organized or affiliated with the conference. The video, published by a White House communications advisor, shows bishops offering thanks for the presidency and the government. The footage surfaced ahead of the November 3 midterm elections and led to accusations that the White House exploited the event for political purposes.

Chieko Noguchi, spokesman for the U.S. bishops, clarified the conference's position following the controversy. While some bishops described the meeting as an exchange regarding migration, human dignity, and respect for life, others expressed regret. Msgr. Jeffrey S. Grob, Bishop of Milwaukee, said he attended the meeting with reservations and stated his presence did not imply support for the president.

James Golka, a priest in Denver, said that praying for public officials is a longstanding Catholic practice based on the instructions of St. Paul. He noted that such prayer is not an endorsement of a specific candidate or political party.