Pope Leo XIV Pushes Back on U.S. Immigration Rhetoric with Message of Compassion

Pope Leo XIV, formerly known as Cardinal Robert Prevost, has made his stance on immigration crystal clear: everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and compassion, no matter where they come from. This belief has put him at odds with prominent American leaders, including Vice President JD Vance and former President Donald Trump.

Pope Pushes Back on JD Vance’s “Order of Love” Argument

Earlier in 2025, Vice President JD Vance delivered a speech invoking the concept of ordo amoris, or “order of love,” suggesting Americans should prioritize their own families and fellow citizens over immigrants and strangers.

Pope Leo XIV didn’t buy into that idea. He rejected the notion that love should be conditional or ranked. According to The Daily Beast, the pope endorsed social media posts that criticized Vance’s comments and reaffirmed his support for Pope Francis’s inclusive message: that love and compassion shouldn’t depend on nationality or immigration status.

Trump’s Immigration Policies Also Faced Pope’s Criticism

Before becoming pope, Leo XIV was already vocal about his opposition to former President Donald Trump’s hardline immigration stance. He publicly condemned the treatment of migrants at the southern U.S. border, especially the family separation policy that drew national outrage.

As the New York Post reported, Leo XIV frequently shared posts calling Trump’s immigration measures cruel. He also voiced concern for Dreamers—young people brought to the U.S. as children—who continue to live in legal limbo.

His Core Message: Love Without Borders

For Pope Leo XIV, caring for the vulnerable—especially migrants and refugees—isn’t just a political issue; it’s a core Christian value. That’s why he consistently speaks out when political leaders promote policies that conflict with that principle.

As the Los Angeles Times noted, Pope Leo XIV has consistently reminded the world that human dignity is not negotiable—and that migrants deserve respect and compassion, regardless of where they come from.

A Pope Leading with Heart

Pope Leo XIV’s message is unwavering: compassion should come before politics. No law or national interest should override the fundamental Christian call to love and care for others—no exceptions.