Pope Leo XIV’s Election Sparks Tensions With U.S. Leaders

Cardinal Robert Prevost of Chicago has been elected Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first American to lead the Catholic Church. While President Trump and Vice President JD Vance praised the historic moment, tensions may be looming.

Though Vance publicly congratulated the new pope, past social-media activity from Leo XIV shows clear disagreement with some MAGA-aligned views. In February, he reshared an op-ed criticizing Vance’s comments on prioritizing love, rejecting the idea that Christians should rank their compassion.

He also reposted criticism of Trump and Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele over the deportation of a Maryland resident, aligning himself with Catholic leaders who questioned the morality of the move.

Despite political celebration in the U.S., Pope Leo XIV appears unafraid to challenge American leaders when their policies conflict with Church teachings.