In brief
Following the elevation of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost to the papacy as Pope Leo XIV, President Trump expressed excitement at the selection of the first U.S.-born pope. However, key figures within the MAGA political faction quickly voiced their discontent.
Laura Loomer, a prominent far-right activist, labeled the new pope as “anti-Trump” and reminiscent of his liberal predecessor, Pope Francis. She asserted on social media that this appointment signifies a continuation of progressive ideologies within the Vatican, which she claims are detrimental to the Catholic community. Loomer's sentiments were echoed on Steve Bannon's right-wing podcast, where the discussion centered around Leo's alignment with Francis, particularly in his advocacy for migrants, which often contradicted Trump's policies.As the MAGA movement grapples with this unexpected papal shift, it remains to be seen how the relationship between the movement and the Vatican will evolve under Pope Leo XIV, especially regarding his approach to immigration and other critical issues.
