FAITH LEADERS ACCUSE WHITE HOUSE FAITH OFFICE OF BLOCKING COMMUNICATION. (PHOTO).

Faith leaders accuse White House faith office of blocking communication

Some faith leaders are claiming they are being shut out by the White House Faith Office, saying the administration only grants access to groups aligned with its political priorities while ignoring the impact of policies like ICE raids on religious communities. Critics argue that the office, which is taxpayer-funded and meant to represent the full spectrum of American faith, has instead become a political tool for conservative Christians.

President Trump created the White House Faith Office by executive order on Feb. 7, 2025, placing it within the Domestic Policy Council inside the White House. Unlike previous versions, often housed in outside agencies, this office is central to Trump’s “religious freedom” agenda. Some faith leaders say it operates with a “closed door” policy for those who do not support the administration’s cultural or immigration goals. Doug Pagitt of Vote Common Good says he has repeatedly sought meetings to discuss clergy petitions related to ICE, but was turned away, with staff citing commitments like the National Prayer Breakfast. Critics say the office has become a venue for white conservative Christians to publicly pray over Trump, rather than engage with leaders concerned about Islamophobia, antisemitism, or other issues.

The White House says the office is inclusive and focused on protecting religious freedom. Officials point to briefings with thousands of people, events for Ramadan, Easter, Hanukkah, Diwali, and the National Day of Prayer, and a high volume of meeting requests. However, leaders on the ground argue that administration policies have hurt congregations, particularly those serving immigrant communities. Rev. Gabriel Salguero of the National Latino Evangelical Coalition said attendance in many Latino churches has dropped 30% to 50%, forcing his organization to send emergency aid to keep doors open.

Interfaith Alliance and other multifaith groups have sued the administration over the creation of the Religious Liberty Commission, arguing it violates the Federal Advisory Committee Act by presenting unbalanced viewpoints. The commission’s membership is almost entirely Christian, with only one Orthodox Jewish rabbi. Faith leaders say access should not require endorsement of the administration’s policies, stressing that they are willing to engage across political lines but need the office to represent all faiths fairly.