VATICAN CITY — In the lead-up to the closely watched election of the first American pope, U.S. President Donald Trump stirred controversy by sharing an AI-generated image of himself as the pontiff. This provocative act drew sharp criticism and frustration from Church leaders, marking yet another instance of Trump trying to insert himself into significant ecclesiastical events.
Despite some reluctance among cardinals to elect a pope from the United States, the conclave ultimately chose Chicago-born Robert Francis Prevost, now known as Pope Leo XIV. This decision reflects a desire for a leader who could potentially serve as a counterbalance to Trump’s unpredictable leadership style.
A New Direction for the Papacy
While various internal dynamics influenced the conclave’s decision, the election of an American pope capable of opposing Trump’s rhetoric was seen as an added benefit. Cardinal participants recognized that Prevost, a 69-year-old former missionary of diverse heritage, could offer a progressive perspective that contrasts sharply with the current U.S. administration.
Pope Leo XIV is expected to uphold the compassionate, inclusive approach that characterized the papacy of his predecessor, Pope Francis. Observers believe this new pontiff will continue advocating for marginalized groups, aligning with a broader, more tolerant vision for the Church, which has historically struggled with issues of persecution.
Moreover, where Trump promotes isolationism, Leo XIV is anticipated to further Francis’ agenda of empowering local churches, particularly in regions like Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The backing of cardinals from these influential areas proved pivotal in his election.
Migration: A Key Point of Divergence
One of the most significant contrasts between the new pope and Trump lies in their approaches to migration. While Trump has focused on mass deportations and restrictive immigration policies, Leo XIV has openly supported migrants and refugees, championing human rights and advocating on behalf of the impoverished. As noted, his Peruvian citizenship further underscores his commitment to these issues.
“He is certainly a problem for Trump as he has taken a very serious position and represents the America that Trump detests, those that speak Spanish,” said church historian Alberto Melloni.
Cardinal Walter Kasper highlighted the importance of migration as a topic during the pre-conclave discussions, emphasizing the cardinals’ collective disapproval of Trump’s treatment of migrants. With Leo’s extensive experience in this area, his papacy is expected to address these pressing concerns in stark contrast to the current administration.
Although the election of Prevost was not solely a reaction to Trump, it acknowledges the impact of U.S. politics on the American Catholic Church, which has become increasingly divided between progressive and traditional factions. This division poses a significant challenge for Church leaders in maintaining unity and preventing further schism.
The cardinals recognized that without a strong American Church, the global Church would face challenges. By electing Prevost, the cardinals aimed to foster healing among the factions within the U.S. Church, with many believing that his leadership could bridge existing divides.
As Leo XIV prepares to lead, his decision to occupy the Apostolic Palace signals a willingness to engage with traditionalists, a strategic move intended to promote unity rather than discord. He is expected to navigate contentious issues without alienating conservative factions, suggesting a thoughtful approach to reconciliation.
While some traditionalists have expressed optimism regarding Prevost’s potential for a conciliatory tone, there remains skepticism among some MAGA supporters. Following Leo’s election, far-right activists condemned him as a “woke Marxist pope,” underscoring the divide between his progressive views on migration and those of the Trump-aligned base.
However, Cardinal Hollerich defended the new pope’s election, clarifying that the decision was not an anti-Trump statement but rather a commitment to the teachings of Jesus. Nonetheless, his American identity inherently brings a complex dimension to his papacy, intertwining the realities of U.S. politics with global Catholicism.