Pope Francis leaves a divided legacy among U.S. Catholics

Pope Francis’ 2015 U.S. visit inspired hope for renewal, but his decade-long papacy saw rising divisions, as conservative U.S. Catholics clashed with him over immigration, climate, and LGBTQ+ rights. He died at 88, leaving a complex legacy.

When Pope Francis visited the U.S. in 2015, large, enthusiastic crowds welcomed him in cities like New York, Washington, and Philadelphia. Many hoped it marked the beginning of a new chapter for the Catholic Church in America. Instead, it became a period of deepening division.

Over the following decade, a growing conservative movement within the U.S. Catholic Church increasingly clashed with Francis on key issues such as immigration, climate change, and LGBTQ+ rights. These tensions affected how the pope was viewed: while about 90% of American Catholics had a favorable opinion of him in 2015, that number fell to 75% by 2024.

Pope Francis passed away at age 88.

The rise of conservative influence in the American church was evident in the 2024 U.S. presidential election, where 59% of Catholic voters supported Donald Trump over Democrat Kamala Harris. Trump’s policies often conflicted with the pope’s views, especially regarding immigration and social welfare, which Francis openly criticized.

A theological disagreement also emerged when Pope Francis indirectly opposed Vice President JD Vance's religious justification for strict immigration measures. The two had a brief meeting on Easter Sunday, just hours before the pope’s death.

Despite disagreements, some American Catholics admired Francis for his progressive approach. Younger Catholics, like 24-year-old Carson Doss from New York, appreciated his efforts, even if older generations did not.

David Gibson, from Fordham University, noted that the U.S. Catholic Church has become increasingly conservative compared to the global church. Groups like Eternal Word Television Network and The Napa Institute have helped spread traditionalist views, often challenging Francis' positions on issues like same-sex blessings and environmental advocacy.

Some churchgoers shared their dissatisfaction. Jeff Pfaff from Staten Island expressed frustration with Francis’ more liberal stances, especially on immigration and LGBTQ+ issues.

Francis expanded church leadership globally by appointing cardinals from countries like Haiti, Tonga, and Mongolia, bringing in leaders who often shared his focus on social justice. However, not all shared his exact views.

As the Church prepares for a new pope, some U.S. conservatives hope to influence the decision by aligning with like-minded church leaders from regions such as Africa. Though some American bishops, like Cardinal Tobin, Archbishop McElroy, and Cardinal Cupich are considered potential candidates, experts believe it's unlikely a U.S. cardinal will be chosen, given the Vatican's concerns over America's already significant influence.

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