Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, born in Chicago, was sworn in as Pope Leo XIV on May 8, becoming the first American pope. He has been outspoken about political issues, particularly criticizing President Trump’s domestic policies, similar to his predecessor, Pope Francis.
During his first Sunday blessing as pope on May 11, Pope Leo called for an end to war and praised peace efforts in India and Pakistan, while advocating for ceasefire in Gaza and Ukraine.
Pope Leo has criticized Trump’s policies on immigration. He retweeted Cardinal Blase Cupich’s criticism of separating families at the border and shared articles condemning Trump’s anti-immigrant rhetoric, mass deportations, and refugee bans. He also reposted comments about Trump’s language fueling racism and nativism.
Pope Leo also spoke out against Trump’s vice president, JD Vance, stating that “Jesus doesn’t ask us to rank our love for others.”
Trump congratulated Pope Leo on his election and expressed interest in meeting him, acknowledging their differing views on immigration.
