On May 8, 2025, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago was elected Pope Leo XIV—the first American to lead the Catholic Church. His election quickly drew praise, including from former President Donald Trump, who called it a “Great Honor for our Country.” However, past social media posts from the new pope—critical of U.S. immigration policies and comments by Vice President J.D. Vance—have resurfaced. He condemned family separation and deportation practices, calling them morally indefensible, and pushed back on Vance’s claim that Christian love should be ranked by proximity.
These statements, made before his papacy, reflect a strong emphasis on social justice, human dignity, and universal compassion—values rooted in Catholic teaching.
Analysts are watching to see how these views will affect Vatican-U.S. relations, especially as Trump prepares to meet the new pontiff.
Vatican insiders and Catholic advocacy groups welcome his approach, while some conservatives express concern. As Pope Leo prepares for his first public Mass and diplomatic efforts, his past tweets offer a preview of a pontificate likely to blend spiritual leadership with outspoken advocacy for the vulnerable.