The left-leaning media and online critics have wasted no time speculating about President Donald Trump’s decision to take his oath of office without placing his hand on a Bible during his January 20 inauguration in Washington, D.C. However, evangelical leader Reverend Franklin Graham has stepped forward to provide much-needed context and debunk the unfounded rumors swirling around the incident.
Speaking to *Premier Christian News*, Reverend Graham, a staunch ally of President Trump and a defender of the Christian faith, explained that the absence of the Bible during the swearing-in ceremony was not a slight against Christianity, but simply a matter of timing.
Reverend Graham clarified the confusion, noting that the inauguration was already running slightly behind schedule. “You’re supposed to be sworn in by 12, and I think it was now 12:01,” Graham explained. “It was just kind of hurried, and they didn’t have time [for the Bible to be brought forward].”
First Lady Melania Trump was seen shortly afterward carrying the Bible to the stage, but by then, Justice Brett Kavanaugh had already begun administering the oath of office. Graham acknowledged the awkwardness of the moment but stressed that it was purely circumstantial. “Justice Kavanaugh started administering the oath before Melania even got up there with the Bibles,” he said. “It wasn’t intentional, I promise.”
Despite the timing hiccup, Reverend Graham reaffirmed President Trump’s unwavering dedication to the Christian faith. As a man who believes deeply in the power of prayer and God’s guidance, Trump understands that his role as president requires divine support. “The president knows he cannot do his job without God,” Graham stated.
Graham also emphasized the stark contrast between Trump’s administration and that of his predecessor. “Biden was not friendly at all to people of faith,” he said. “But Trump has always been friendly, and he’s going to listen to the Christians.”
The reverend highlighted the presence of “wonderful Christians” in Trump’s cabinet—individuals who love God and bring their faith into their service for the nation. This, Graham explained, underscores the president’s commitment to fostering a government that respects and upholds Christian values.
As a trusted spiritual advisor, Reverend Graham sees his role as one of prayer and encouragement, urging Americans to pray for their president. “I want to encourage people to pray for [Trump] because he cannot do his job without God,” Graham said.
Rather than focusing on trivial misunderstandings, Graham called on Christians to unite in support of a leader who values their faith and listens to their concerns.
This inauguration “controversy” is yet another example of the media’s eagerness to misrepresent President Trump and stir unnecessary outrage. As Reverend Graham made clear, the absence of the Bible was a logistical error, not a reflection of Trump’s faith.
Under Trump’s leadership, Christians can take heart in knowing they have an ally in the White House who respects their beliefs and understands the importance of God’s guidance in leading the nation. As Graham put it, “With prayer and God’s wisdom, President Trump is equipped to serve this country faithfully.”
