The election of Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, as the first American pontiff has ignited discussions about the Vatican's stance on U.S. politics, particularly concerning President Donald Trump's influence on American Catholics.
Pope Leo XIV's background includes extensive missionary work in Peru and a commitment to social justice, aligning him with the progressive reforms of his predecessor, Pope Francis. In his initial addresses, Pope Leo XIV has called for the Church to be a beacon of peace and compassion, urging a departure from political partisanship.
Reactions from Trump's supporters have been swift and critical. Steve Bannon, who is a former White House strategist and a practicing Catholic, expressed astonishment at the election of a pope who has previously criticized American political figures, predicting potential friction between Pope Leo XIV and Trump.
The Pope's past social media activity includes sharing articles critical of Trump's immigration policies and Vice President JD Vance's statements on prioritizing national over global compassion.
The now-pope tweeted an article from the National Catholic Reporter in February that chastised Vice President JD Vance for his response to an immigration inquiry. Prevost, the new pope, quoted the article's headline: "JD Vance is wrong: Jesus doesn't ask us to rank our love for others."
Pope Leo XIV, officially began his papacy with a call for unity and peace at his inaugural Mass in St. Peter’s Square.