A Steady Reminder of Truth: Senator Ted Budd on the Capitol Ministries Bible Study
Interview with U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R–North Carolina)
How has attending the Capitol Ministries Bible study impacted your personal faith journey?
Senator Budd: I would say it serves as a weekly reminder to me of biblical truth. Some lessons are new because of context that we’re in, and others are reminders of things we’ve seen before. We may have studied them on our own, but now we’re seeing them in a new light and with other Senate colleagues. It’s been tremendously important.
How does the study help you apply biblical principles in your important role as a public servant?
Senator Budd: Ralph and Danielle have been doing this for a long time. In the early 2000s I was actually at the Council for National Policy and was inspired by a speech by Ralph. He’s been doing this for decades and is a great student of Scripture. He knows how to apply it in the House, the Senate, the Cabinet, and the leadership context that we live in. It’s deep truth, skillfully applied to what we face every day.
That’s good. Why do you believe this ministry is especially needed today in the halls of government?
Senator Budd: If it weren’t here, what would fill the vacuum would be less significant—a secular worldview. We want biblical truth to have a place in the political marketplace of ideas. These are foundational truths that guide us as individuals and leaders. We carry them with us throughout the week, and they leave a lasting, even permanent, imprint. What is the quote? “Only what’s done for Christ will last.” It reminds us to do what we do for the purposes of Christ.
What would you say to a colleague who might be hesitant about joining the Bible study?
Senator Budd: People come from all different backgrounds and both parties. It’s a refreshing time together. I’d say come and give it a try. There’s no obligation to return, but those who come once usually come back.
And there’s a great breakfast for us!
If you were to sum up the study in a sentence or two, what would that be?
Senator Budd: It is a consistent biblical reminder in the weekly context that we face as national leaders.
Senator, is there anything else we haven’t covered that you’d like to add?
Senator Budd: I’d just like to thank the supporters who make it possible for Ralph and Danielle to serve here in Washington. It is much appreciated. It’s a lot of travel and hard work, and I’m very grateful to the whole team and supporters who’ve allowed this ministry to happen.
One last question — what would you say to someone who feels called to bring a similar study to local leaders?
Senator Budd: The quality of the materials is unmatched. The studies benefit from the experience and thoughtfulness that have come from decades of ministry at local, state, and national levels. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel—lean into Capitol Ministries, use the tools and structure they’ve developed with great skill and care. I’d encourage anyone interested to take advantage of that and lead confidently at the local level.