President Donald Trump used the 74th National Prayer Breakfast on Thursday to defend his record on faith, celebrate religious freedom, and draw a sharp contrast with Democrats he accused of pushing religion to the sidelines. Speaking at the Washington Hilton, Trump said he has done “more for religion than any other president”—a bold claim, but one he backed with policy and applause.
“This is a beautiful American tradition, and it’s a true honor to be back,” Trump told the crowd, noting he has attended the event nearly every year. He described the breakfast as a rare moment of reflection amid the pressures of the presidency, joking that he needs “all the help I can get.” Honest and on-brand.
In remarks aired live on Newsmax, Trump said religion in America is “back now, hotter than ever before,” crediting his administration for restoring faith’s place in public life. While admitting he is “not a perfect candidate,” he argued his administration delivered real results for religious Americans after years of neglect.
“I’ve done more for religion than any other president,” Trump said, adding that recent presidents largely “bailed out” on faith, opting instead for neutrality or outright hostility.
“The Democrats are against [religion],” he said bluntly, questioning how “a person of faith can vote for a Democrat.” No sugarcoating there.
Trump pointed to overwhelming public support for voter ID laws as an example of policies Democrats oppose despite broad backing from both religious and secular Americans. He cited polling showing support above 90% and called voter identification common sense.
“When you go to the polls, you show who you are,” Trump said. “They don’t want to approve it. Everyone’s trying to figure out why.” Apparently, common sense needs a permission slip.
He also praised House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., and congressional Republicans for advancing conservative priorities despite narrow margins. Trump joked about making late-night calls to rally hesitant lawmakers, but said Republicans “always get there” in the end.
Beyond faith and elections, Trump highlighted other achievements, including rebuilding the military, boosting U.S. energy production, and restoring American leadership globally. He said the nation is seeing unprecedented investment and economic momentum, calling the period a “tremendous success.”
Trump thanked the bipartisan co-chairs of the National Prayer Breakfast and stressed the importance of keeping faith at the center of American life.
“We have a great country,” he said. “And when you put religion back where it belongs, everything else gets stronger.”
The National Prayer Breakfast, held annually in Washington, brings together lawmakers, religious leaders, and public officials for prayer and reflection—a tradition Trump said remains vital to the nation’s future. Attendees included Speaker Mike Johnson, singer Jelly Roll, and Attorney General Pam Bondi.
Once again, Trump made it clear that faith, freedom, and leadership belong together—and under his administration, religion is no longer pushed aside but proudly brought back to the table.
