Election of Pope Leo XIV Sparks Political Ripples in the U.S.

For the first time in history, an American has been elected to lead the Catholic Church. Cardinal Robert Prevost of Chicago has become Pope Leo XIV—an event hailed as a landmark moment by many, including President Trump and Vice President JD Vance.

While both leaders publicly celebrated his election, signs of underlying tension are emerging. Despite Vice President Vance’s congratulatory remarks, Pope Leo XIV’s past social media posts suggest he holds views that diverge from key MAGA-aligned positions.

In February, he reshared an op-ed that criticized Vance’s stance on prioritizing love, rejecting the notion that Christians should be selective in showing compassion. He also reposted content condemning the deportation of a Maryland resident, aligning himself with Catholic leaders who questioned the moral integrity of the move—an action tied to both Trump and Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele.

Although the political response in the U.S. has been mostly celebratory, Pope Leo XIV has made it clear he won’t hesitate to speak out when American policies clash with core Catholic values.