Archbishops Grob and Joensen apologize for Oval Office photo op with Trump

Archbishop Jeffrey Grob of Milwaukee and Bishop William Joensen of Des Moines issued apologies on Monday for meeting President Donald Trump at the White House. The regret follows the public release of photos and video showing the religious leaders praying with the president at the Resolute Desk.

The incident traces back to October 22, when the bishops met with White House officials. Grob stated he believed the gathering was private and not a political photo opportunity. The session lasted 90 minutes, during which the group discussed immigration, visas for international clergy, and the exploitation of vulnerable poor persons. Afterward, officials ushered the religious leaders into the Oval Office to pray with Trump.

Margo Martin, a special assistant to the president, released the video on social media. She frequently shares behind-the-scenes images of the administration. Neither Grob nor Joensen indicated they had given permission for the public distribution of the media files. The timing of the release occurred less than two weeks before the national election.

Joensen addressed the controversy in a statement posted online. He emphasized that no one intended to endorse a political party or individual candidate. He described the meeting as being arranged by the White House Faith Office. Joensen reflected on the outcome, saying, "I wish I had been more shrewd and less simple, like those who exploited our meeting for partisan political purposes."

Grob also shared his perspective in a written statement. He reported receiving messages from congregants who expressed concern about his participation in what they viewed as a political event. Some parishioners felt wounded because of the impact of the president's policies on their families. Grob confirmed that none of the participants authorized the posting of the video or photos.

The White House responded to the situation on Monday. Spokeswoman Taylor Rogers issued a statement praising the president. She said, "There has never been a greater president for Catholic Americans than President Trump, and his strong record proves it." The administration did not directly address the specific questions regarding the bishops' comments or the release of the media.

Recent data from the Pew Research Center indicates shifting opinions among US Catholics. A survey conducted this month found that 30% of all US Catholics approve of Trump's job performance. This figure is down from 47% when he returned to the White House in 2025. The survey also showed that 42% of Catholics prefer Democrats in their local House of Representatives races, while 39% favor Republicans.

These dynamics play out ahead of the November 3 midterm elections. The vote will determine control of Congress. The tension between the administration and the Catholic Church has been visible recently. Pope Leo XIV and Trump have maintained a contentious relationship, particularly regarding immigration policies. Other Catholic officials, including Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have engaged with the Vatican during this term.