Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost's selection as Pope Leo XIV has sparked criticism from Trump supporters who perceive him as an antagonist to their beliefs, drawing comparisons to Pope Francis.
Pope Leo XIV Faces Backlash from MAGA Movement Following His Election
Pope Leo XIV Faces Backlash from MAGA Movement Following His Election
Far-right activists express discontent over the newly elected pontiff's stance and alignment with progressive values.
When Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was named the new pope on Thursday and took the name Leo XIV, President Trump was quick to congratulate him, heralding a promotional moment as the first U.S.-born pontiff. Trump expressed his excitement in a statement, calling it “such an honor.” However, the elation amongst Trump supporters was short-lived as prominent figures within the MAGA movement expressed their discontent.
Far-right activist Laura Loomer, a notable voice among the Trump base, characterized Pope Leo XIV as “anti-Trump, anti-MAGA, pro-open Borders, and a total Marxist” in a biting social media post. Loomer’s comments underscored a growing unease regarding the pope's potential policies and ideological stance, suggesting that Leo's leadership will mirror the progressive tone set by his predecessor, Pope Francis.
As discussions unfolded on Steve Bannon's popular right-wing podcast "War Room," hosts echoed Loomer's sentiments and framed Leo as a member of the progressive elite, particularly criticizing his support for migrant rights. Many in the MAGA community anticipate that his papacy will align closely with that of Francis, leading to increased dissent among Trump's loyal followers who are fearful of the directions Leo XIV may take the Catholic Church.
In this politically charged atmosphere, Pope Leo XIV is faced with a unique challenge: to navigate the complexities of modern church leadership while potentially alienating a significant faction of the religious demographic in the United States.
Far-right activist Laura Loomer, a notable voice among the Trump base, characterized Pope Leo XIV as “anti-Trump, anti-MAGA, pro-open Borders, and a total Marxist” in a biting social media post. Loomer’s comments underscored a growing unease regarding the pope's potential policies and ideological stance, suggesting that Leo's leadership will mirror the progressive tone set by his predecessor, Pope Francis.
As discussions unfolded on Steve Bannon's popular right-wing podcast "War Room," hosts echoed Loomer's sentiments and framed Leo as a member of the progressive elite, particularly criticizing his support for migrant rights. Many in the MAGA community anticipate that his papacy will align closely with that of Francis, leading to increased dissent among Trump's loyal followers who are fearful of the directions Leo XIV may take the Catholic Church.
In this politically charged atmosphere, Pope Leo XIV is faced with a unique challenge: to navigate the complexities of modern church leadership while potentially alienating a significant faction of the religious demographic in the United States.
