On February 6, 2025, Donald Trump spoke at the National Prayer Breakfast, marking his return to the event after his first address in 2017. This year’s gathering was notable for its more serious tone, reflecting a significant change in the former president’s outlook on faith and life.
Eight years ago, Trump’s speech was filled with self-referential anecdotes, including a mention of his television show, The Apprentice. Many attendees left the event feeling disappointed, as his remarks seemed more focused on his personal achievements than on spiritual matters. Critics labeled him as narcissistic rather than genuinely religious.
In contrast, this year, Trump opened his speech with a somber reflection on a recent tragedy near Reagan Airport, where 67 lives were lost in an accident. He expressed that the victims found comfort in the embrace of a loving God, emphasizing the unpredictability of life. This shift in tone set the stage for a more profound discussion about faith.
Trump then connected his remarks to a life-changing experience he had in July 2024, when he survived an assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania. He shared how that moment made him confront his mortality in a new way. He recounted how a bullet narrowly missed his head, attributing his survival to divine intervention. This experience, he claimed, deepened his faith and connection to God.
His son, Don, who witnessed the incident, remarked that there must have been a higher power at play. Trump humorously noted that Don, who is not particularly religious, “gained some religion” after the incident. The audience responded with laughter, but the underlying message was serious.
As Trump spoke, he appeared more reflective and emotionally engaged than in previous years. He acknowledged that the brush with death changed him, making him feel stronger in his faith. His remarks received a standing ovation, indicating that many in the audience resonated with his new perspective.
This shift in Trump’s demeanor and message was palpable. He seemed less confrontational and more at peace, focusing on healing rather than revenge. The experiences of the past year have led him to a greater appreciation of life and faith, as he expressed gratitude for the moments he has on Earth.
Trump’s evolution was also evident in his inaugural address on January 20, 2025, where he spoke about being saved for a purpose. He reiterated his belief that every moment is a gift from God, a sentiment he has shared frequently since his near-death experience.
This National Prayer Breakfast highlighted not just a change in Trump’s speech but a deeper transformation in his approach to faith and leadership. Attendees left with a sense that this was a different Donald Trump, one who is embracing a more profound relationship with God.