At the 2026 National Prayer Breakfast, President Donald Trump imposed new directives regarding prayer in public schools. And he did so after making fun of a top Republican for praying.
The Daily Beast reported Thursday that Trump rolled out elements of his "Make America Pray Again" agenda at the event, which has taken place on the first day of every February since 1953 and features members of both political parties and various faith leaders. The Beast reported that Trump conditioned federal money on schools allowing students "to pray privately and quietly by themselves, whether in class, at an athletic event or before a meal," all of which is currently religious expression openly permitted by the First Amendment.
The "Make America Pray Again" plan also encourages students to "pray in groups," and to "pray in a speaking voice on the same terms as any other student might engage in non-religious speech." While it's illegal for schools to force students to partake in prayer, public schools must now certify in writing that they are protecting students' right to pray, and state education officials are required to report any violations to federal authorities.
Trump's new rules regarding school prayer came at the same event where he attacked the small number of Democrats who were in attendance. He also openly mocked House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) for his propensity to pray before meals.
"Mike Johnson's a very religious person and he does not hide it," Trump said. "He'll say to me sometimes at lunch, 'sir, may we pray?' I say, 'excuse me? We're having lunch!'"
The 79 year-old president also used part of his speech to wonder about his own mortality, asking the audience if they felt he would get into heaven.
"I really think I probably should make it,” Trump said. "I mean I’m not a perfect candidate, but I did a hell of a lot of good for perfect people. That’s for sure."
