The election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff, has drawn a range of responses in the United States, with some conservative figures expressing concern over his past remarks on immigration and politics.
The election of Pope Leo XIV — the first American to lead the Roman Catholic Church — has prompted varied reactions in the United States, particularly among conservative political figures aligned with former President Donald Trump.
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, is known for his previous roles within the Church and his association with Pope Francis. While President Trump described Leo’s election as a “great honour” for the United States, some of his supporters have questioned the Pope’s past comments on issues such as immigration and social policy.
Former White House strategist Steve Bannon told the BBC that he found some of Pope Leo’s past remarks on social media surprising, particularly those perceived as critical of US immigration policies. He suggested that differences in perspective between the Pope and political leaders could lead to tension.
Other figures associated with the conservative media landscape expressed similar views. Some referenced social media posts attributed to the new Pope, which included support for immigrants and discussions around Church social teachings. The Vatican has not officially confirmed the authenticity of the account in question.
Pope Leo’s brother, John Prevost, said in media interviews that the new pontiff has strong opinions on immigration and may choose to express them during his papacy. However, it remains unclear how these views may influence his leadership of the global Church.
Polling data from Pew Research Center indicates that around 20% of Americans identify as Catholic, with views on political and social issues varying widely across the community. While a majority of US Catholics have historically viewed Pope Francis favourably, opinions within conservative circles have been more divided.
The US Conference of Catholic Bishops welcomed Pope Leo XIV’s election, highlighting his message of peace, unity, and missionary focus as signs of continuity in Church leadership.
Public reactions among Catholics in Chicago, where Pope Leo grew up, were largely positive. Some expressed hopes that he would carry forward Pope Francis’s emphasis on social justice and inclusivity.
Although some conservative commentators have voiced reservations, others, including Vice-President JD Vance, offered a more measured response. Vance said he expected to both agree and disagree with the new Pope at times but affirmed his ongoing support for the Church.
Pope Leo XIV’s views on a number of key issues, including immigration, economic policy, and Church governance, are expected to become clearer as his papacy unfolds.
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief: here are the top news stories for May 10th , covering the latest developments you need to know.
The election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff, has drawn a range of responses in the United States, with some conservative figures expressing concern over his past remarks on immigration and politics.
A new rose has been named after Catherine, Princess of Wales, to promote the healing benefits of nature.
A fragment of the Soviet spacecraft Kosmos 482, launched in 1972, is expected to crash back to Earth between 9 and 10 May, according to space agencies monitoring its re-entry.
FIFA has approved a major expansion of the Women’s World Cup, increasing the number of participating teams to 48 starting from the 2031 edition.
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief: here are the top news stories for May 10th , covering the latest developments you need to know.
Pakistan has reported that three of its air bases were targeted by Indian missiles, as tensions between the two nuclear-armed countries escalate amid ongoing military operations.
Leaders from Britain, France, Germany and Poland met with Ukraine’s President in Kyiv to support a proposed 30-day ceasefire, amid diplomatic efforts involving the US and Europe aimed at reducing hostilities in the conflict with Russia.
The election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff, has drawn a range of responses in the United States, with some conservative figures expressing concern over his past remarks on immigration and politics.
A new rose has been named after Catherine, Princess of Wales, to promote the healing benefits of nature.
India has fired a series of missiles into Pakistani-controlled territory, in what it has described as “Operation Sindoor”
For the first time in history, an American has been chosen to lead the Catholic Church, as Cardinal Robert Prevost is named pope.
Discover every major VE Day 80 event in Britain, 5‑8 May 2025—from London’s parade and fly‑past to street parties, concerts and museum exhibitions.
Chinese e-commerce platform Temu has announced it will no longer sell goods directly from China to U.S. customers, shifting instead to U.S.-based sellers amid the closure of a long-criticized customs loophole.
A Rafale fighter jet operated by the Indian Air Force has reportedly been shot down for the first time in combat, according to sources cited by CNN, marking a significant and symbolic development in the ongoing escalation between India and Pakistan.
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief: here are the top news stories for May 10th , covering the latest developments you need to know.
Pakistan has reported that three of its air bases were targeted by Indian missiles, as tensions between the two nuclear-armed countries escalate amid ongoing military operations.
Leaders from Britain, France, Germany and Poland met with Ukraine’s President in Kyiv to support a proposed 30-day ceasefire, amid diplomatic efforts involving the US and Europe aimed at reducing hostilities in the conflict with Russia.
A new rose has been named after Catherine, Princess of Wales, to promote the healing benefits of nature.
A fragment of the Soviet spacecraft Kosmos 482, launched in 1972, is expected to crash back to Earth between 9 and 10 May, according to space agencies monitoring its re-entry.
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief: here are the top news stories for May 10th , covering the latest developments you need to know.
Pakistan has reported that three of its air bases were targeted by Indian missiles, as tensions between the two nuclear-armed countries escalate amid ongoing military operations.
Leaders from Britain, France, Germany and Poland met with Ukraine’s President in Kyiv to support a proposed 30-day ceasefire, amid diplomatic efforts involving the US and Europe aimed at reducing hostilities in the conflict with Russia.
The election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff, has drawn a range of responses in the United States, with some conservative figures expressing concern over his past remarks on immigration and politics.
A new rose has been named after Catherine, Princess of Wales, to promote the healing benefits of nature.
You can download the AnewZ application from Play Store and the App Store.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment