What Pope Leo XIV Said about Trump’s Policies Surfaced after His Announcement as Pontiff
- Before becoming the first US-born pope, Pope Leo XIV was outspoken in his criticism of President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, drawing fresh scrutiny after he assumed leadership of the Catholic Church
- His past social media posts—expressing disapproval of Trump's immigration policies and highlighting concerns about social justice—have resurfaced, igniting debate among conservative circles
- Despite the controversy, Trump welcomed Leo’s appointment, calling it a "great honour" and confirming contact had already been made for a potential meeting
Before his election as pontiff, Pope Leo XIV, formerly Robert Prevost, was vocal on social media regarding his disapproval of certain policies endorsed by President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance.
His previous posts resurfaced on May 8 as his appointment brought him into the centre of global attention, according to Reuters.
Source: Getty Images
Social media posts and political backlash
Posts from Prevost’s X account, dating back months and years, conveyed his opposition to the Republican leaders’ decisions.
Notably, he criticised Trump’s immigration policy and questioned the morality of using a Salvadoran prison for suspected gang members deported from the U.S:
"Do you not see the suffering? Is your conscience not disturbed?"
These posts gained renewed attention after his election as pope, drawing backlash from Trump’s most ardent conservative supporters, including activist Laura Loomer.
Mixed Reactions from U.S. Leaders
Despite Leo XIV’s documented criticism, Trump expressed pride at an American leading the Vatican, calling it a “great honour.”
The president confirmed that contact had already been made for a possible meeting. White House officials refrained from commenting on the past remarks but cheered the appointment of the first US-born pope as the news broke on television screens.
Continuation of Francis’ ideals
Pope Leo XIV is expected to follow in the footsteps of the late Pope Francis, who was a champion of the poor and immigrants.
Like Francis, Leo’s differences with Trump’s administration were considerable—Trump’s immigration policies were previously denounced as a disgrace by Francis, and Leo also spoke out against racism, particularly during the 2020 racial justice movement.
Source: Getty Images
Policy alignment and disagreements
While Leo XIV shares some views with Trump—such as opposing abortion—his stance on climate change and racial issues remains in opposition to the Republican agenda.
His past endorsement of a Catholic climate petition contrasts sharply with Trump’s decision to withdraw the U.S. from the Paris Climate Agreement. Similarly, his advocacy for racial justice opposes Trump’s removal of diversity, equity, and inclusion policies in federal offices.
Historical Vatican-U.S. relations
Washington and the Vatican have often experienced both cooperation and ideological clashes throughout history.
From Reagan and John Paul II’s anti-Communist alliance, to John Paul II’s opposition to Clinton’s abortion stance, tensions have existed between U.S. leaders and Catholic doctrines. Pope Leo XIV’s perspectives now add a new dynamic to this ongoing relationship.
World leaders react as Robert Francis Prevost becomes Pope
Legit.ng earlier reported that Political figures worldwide expressed their congratulations to Robert Francis Prevost after his election as the new Pope, taking on the name Pope Leo XIV.
Reports from major news outlets, including BBC, CNN, and DailyMail UK, confirmed the historic announcement. Hailing from Chicago, Prevost became the first American to ascend to the papacy.
His election followed a traditional conclave held in the Sistine Chapel, where 133 cardinals gathered on Wednesday, 7 May.
PAY ATTENTION: Сheck out news that is picked exactly for YOU ➡️ find the “Recommended for you” block on the home page and enjoy!
Proofreading by Kola Muhammed, copy editor at Legit.ng.
Source: Legit.ng
