Cardinal Robert Prevost Becomes Pope Leo XIV, Sparking Praise—and Debate

On May 8, 2025, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago made history by becoming Pope Leo XIV—the first American ever elected to lead the Catholic Church. His election drew praise from around the world, including a statement from former President Donald Trump, who called it a “Great Honor for our Country.”

But the moment of celebration also brought renewed scrutiny. Social media posts from Prevost’s past, in which he criticized U.S. immigration policies and Vice President J.D. Vance, have resurfaced. In those posts, he condemned practices like family separation and mass deportation as “morally indefensible,” and challenged Vance’s argument that Christian love should be prioritized based on geographic proximity.

Though made before his papacy, these statements reveal Pope Leo XIV’s deep commitment to social justice, human dignity, and compassion for the marginalized—principles deeply rooted in Catholic teaching.

As Trump prepares to meet with the new pontiff, many are watching to see how these views will shape Vatican-U.S. relations. Inside the Vatican, Pope Leo’s emphasis on outreach to the vulnerable has been welcomed by Church leaders and Catholic advocacy groups alike. But some conservative voices have raised concerns over what they see as a political tone.

As Pope Leo XIV prepares for his first public Mass and international engagements, his past comments offer a glimpse into a papacy that may be as bold in its moral voice as it is in its spiritual leadership.