A Divided Nation Reacts to America’s First Pope: Leo XIV

The selection of Cardinal Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV, marking the first time an American has ascended to the papacy in the Catholic Church’s two-millennia history, has ignited a complex and polarized reaction across the United States. While many celebrate the historic moment, particularly within Catholic communities and among those who view the new pontiff as aligning with progressive values, others, especially within the "America First" movement, express reservations and even outright opposition, fueled by past statements attributed to the Pope on contentious political issues.

Pope Leo XIV’s first Mass, delivered in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel, offered a glimpse into his priorities and vision for the Church. Echoing sentiments of his predecessor, the late Pope Francis, Leo emphasized a commitment to standing with "ordinary people" and highlighted the detrimental impact of declining religious faith on society. He connected the erosion of faith to a host of societal ills, including the loss of meaning in life, a lack of mercy, "appalling violations of human dignity," and the crisis facing the family. This message resonated with many who see the Pope as a compassionate and socially conscious leader.

However, the new Pope’s perceived progressive leanings have already drawn criticism from some corners, particularly within the conservative political sphere. Despite this, prominent figures within the "America First" movement offered initially positive reactions. Former President Donald Trump, the movement’s founder and leader, lauded the selection of Pope Leo XIV, noting his American roots, despite having spent much of his life in Peru. Trump hailed the event as a "Great Honor for our Country" and expressed anticipation for a future meeting with the Pope. Vice President JD Vance also extended his congratulations, assuring prayers for the Pope’s success in leading the Church.

Beneath the surface of these initial positive sentiments, however, lay a simmering unease fueled by Pope Leo XIV’s past pronouncements on controversial American issues. A digital trail of the Pope’s commentary on matters such as illegal immigration, gun control, and the 2020 death of George Floyd has become a source of contention, particularly among staunch Trump supporters. These issues, which have deeply divided American society, now threaten to cast a shadow over the new Pope’s papacy within the U.S.

Steve Bannon, a prominent figure in Trump’s first administration and a conservative Catholic, expressed his disapproval of the selection with a blunt "Worst pick ever" on social media. This sentiment was echoed and amplified by other far-right voices, including podcasters and social media influencers, who circulated unverified reports of past posts attributed to the Pope criticizing Trump’s immigration policies.

Conservative commentator Joey Mannarino further stoked the flames of controversy, claiming on X that the new Pope had "attacked JD Vance, shown solidarity" with immigration activists, and "begged Trump to open the borders." He went on to declare that Pope Leo XIV was "worse than Francis," signaling a deep level of dissatisfaction within certain segments of the conservative movement.

Charlie Kirk, a highly influential conservative activist and leader of Turning Point USA, adopted a more cautious approach. While acknowledging concerns about the Pope’s past statements on immigration and the George Floyd protests, Kirk also highlighted the Pope’s apparent pro-life stance. Kirk concluded that there was "a lot yet to learn about this pope" and expressed hope that he would be a "strong advocate for strong borders" and national sovereignty.

In contrast, popular conservative commentator and radio host Hugh Hewitt appeared more receptive to the new Pope, suggesting a potential for dialogue and understanding. The varied reactions from within the conservative movement highlight the complex and nuanced nature of the response to Pope Leo XIV’s election.

The selection of the first American Pope comes at a time when Catholics in the U.S. are politically divided. In the previous presidential election, Trump captured nearly 60% of the Catholic vote, highlighting the growing appeal of conservative policies to a significant portion of the Catholic electorate. Former President Joe Biden, the nation’s second Catholic president, narrowly won the Catholic vote four years prior, demonstrating the shifting political landscape within the Catholic community.

Bill O’Brien, a former New Hampshire state House Speaker and member of the Republican National Committee, reflected the divided sentiments. While expressing respect for the conclave’s decision and pride in having a Pope from America, O’Brien stated a preference for a pontiff "more in the tradition of Pope Benedict," who adhered more closely to traditional doctrines. He suggested that Pope Leo XIV’s criticisms of Trump might indicate "a less than developed political sense than it does a doctoral sense."

O’Brien also acknowledged the importance of a pope’s concern for the "powerless in our society," but cautioned against assuming that this concern necessarily translates into a comprehensive understanding of the importance of national borders. Despite these reservations, O’Brien concluded with a hopeful note, stating that he was "thrilled about where he comes from, and I’m hopeful about where he’s going."

The election of Pope Leo XIV has undoubtedly sparked a period of intense scrutiny and debate within the United States. His actions and pronouncements in the coming months and years will be closely watched by Catholics and non-Catholics alike, as they seek to understand his vision for the Church and his approach to the pressing social and political issues facing the world. The reaction from the "America First" movement, ranging from initial praise to outright condemnation, underscores the deep divisions within American society and the challenges that Pope Leo XIV will face in navigating the complex intersection of faith and politics in the United States.