As Pope Leo XIV steps into his historic role as the first American pontiff, Vice President JD Vance urges a return to faith over politics in response to the Pope’s critiques.
At a Glance
- Pope Leo XIV, born Cardinal Robert Prevost, is the first American-born pontiff
- Leo XIV previously criticized JD Vance’s views on national loyalty and Christian love
- Vance emphasized spiritual mission over politics in response to the Pope’s remarks
- The Vice President reflected on his final meeting with the late Pope Francis
- Vance extended prayers for Leo XIV’s wisdom and leadership
A Historic Shift in the Vatican
The Catholic Church marked a profound milestone this month as Cardinal Robert Prevost of Chicago was elected Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first American to assume the papacy. A former missionary in Peru and head of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Bishops, Leo XIV brings a blend of pastoral care and administrative experience to a Church still mourning the recent death of Pope Francis.
His election has ignited discourse in the U.S., particularly because of a resurfaced tweet from February, in which the then-Cardinal posted: “JD Vance is wrong. Jesus doesn’t ask us to rank our love for others.” This remark became a focal point as conservative figures questioned whether the new Pope would continue Francis’s progressive tone.
Watch a report: Vice President Vance joins Hugh to talk Leo XIV, TDS, and judicial selection.
Vance Weighs In
In a recent interview with radio host Hugh Hewitt, Vice President JD Vance addressed the Pope’s critique directly, stating, “I try not to play the politicization of the Pope game.” He urged Americans not to interpret the Vatican’s leadership through a domestic political lens, noting the diversity of the Church’s 1.3 billion members.
Vance also reflected on his personal encounter with Pope Francis shortly before his death, calling it a “sign from God.” He recalled the pontiff as frail but kind, emphasizing his pastoral impact rather than political legacy. “I think he was a great Christian pastor, and that’s how I choose to remember the Holy Father,” Vance said.
A Theological Divide
The dispute centers on Vance’s 2022 use of ordo amoris—a theological concept about the hierarchy of love—to defend nationalistic immigration policies. His remarks, suggesting that Americans should love their fellow citizens before others abroad, were explicitly rejected by the future Pope, who warned against ranking compassion in that way.
Vance didn’t retract his position but emphasized that the Church’s core mission should remain spiritual, not political. “A lot of people want to make the Holy Father’s death about American politics,” he said. “He was obviously a much broader figure than the United States.”
Faith First, Politics Second
Despite their differences, Vance extended a gesture of respect and prayer to the new Pope. “We’ll pray for his wisdom, his good decisions, and his good health,” he told Townhall. “I just wish him the best.”
Pope Leo XIV inherits a Church at a political crossroads. With his American roots and outspoken theology, he may challenge both liberal and conservative assumptions. But for now, Vance’s message is clear: the Pope’s role is best understood through faith, not faction.
