Trump Announces May 17 National Mall Prayer Event: ‘Rededicate America’

President Donald J. Trump used Thursday’s National Prayer Breakfast to unveil a major faith-centered initiative tied to America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, while also addressing political controversies, praising key members of his administration, and highlighting what he described as a strong record on border security and military readiness.

Speaking before a packed audience at the Washington Hilton, President Trump revealed plans for a massive prayer gathering on the National Mall in May 2026. The event, he said, will bring Americans together in a display of national unity and faith as the country approaches its historic milestone.

“This morning, I’m pleased to announce that on May 17, 2026, that we’re inviting Americans from all across the country to come together on our National Mall, to pray, to give thanks, to rededicate America as one nation under God,” Trump said.

Trump described the National Prayer Breakfast as a cherished American tradition and joked about feeling both honored — and slightly intimidated — to participate each year.

“This is a beautiful American tradition, and it’s a true honor to be back,” Trump told his audience at the Washington Hilton. “I think I’ve been here just about every time. It’s hard to turn it down. I don’t have the courage to turn it down.”

“The last time I came, I got in [to DC] at 4 in the morning. They said, ‘Sir, you’re going to be speaking at 7,'” he added. “I said, ‘I’ll be there. I’m afraid not to be. I need all the help I can get.'”

Backing Key Administration Leaders

The president used the event to praise Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, dismissing criticism over her involvement in a recent election-related raid in Georgia.

“She took a lot of heat two days ago because … she looked at the votes that want to be checked out from Georgia. They say, ‘Why is she doing it?’ Because she’s smart,” Trump said.

Trump also pushed back on speculation about Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s future following contentious immigration enforcement operations in Minneapolis.

“They were saying about Kristi Noem yesterday — I did the Super Bowl interview — ‘Sir, are you the one to relieve Kristi Noem of her duties?’ I said, ‘Why would I do that?’ We have the strongest border in the history of our country. We have the best crime numbers we’ve ever had,” Trump said.

The president praised the depth of his administration’s leadership team, offering public recognition to Gabbard and Attorney General Pam Bondi.

“We have an unbelievable bench,” Trump said.

Military Recruitment and GOP Frustrations

Highlighting national security achievements, Trump argued that military recruitment has surged under his leadership and suggested Congress consider expanding the armed forces.

“Nobody wanted to be in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, the Coast Guard, Space Force — which is turning out to be good. I’m so proud of it because I was the, I’m the father of Space Force. I’m the one that wanted it. We have waiting lists of people wanting to get in. In fact, if we want to expand the military, Mr. Speaker [Mike Johnson], this would be a very good time to do it,” Trump said.

The president also offered candid reflections on working with Congress, describing late-night calls from House Speaker Mike Johnson about internal GOP disagreements.

“What time is it? It’s three in the morning. So we have nine names giving us difficulty. They want to have a phone call,” Trump recalled. “S—. All right, let’s go. Here we go.”

Trump joked about conversations with conservative lawmakers, including Rep. Chip Roy, and criticized Rep. Thomas Massie for consistently opposing legislation.

“We have one that doesn’t get there,” he said in reference to Massie. “We have one guy. He’s an automatic no, no matter what. If we did welfare reform, if we did the greatest thing in history for religion, no matter what we did… [he] voted against it.”

Faith, Patriotism, and Political Momentum

Trump’s remarks blended humor, policy priorities, and faith-based messaging — themes that have long resonated with his supporters. The planned National Mall prayer event signals a renewed emphasis on religious liberty and national unity as America prepares to mark its 250th birthday, underscoring the administration’s broader focus on tradition, patriotism, and constitutional values.