Vance Breaks Silence on Pope Leo Criticism

Published: Saturday, May 10, 2025 at 2:44 pm

Vance Responds to Pope Leo XIV Criticism, Downplays Political Influence

Vice President J.D. Vance has responded to recent criticism from Pope Leo XIV, the first U.S.-born pontiff, regarding Vance's stance on prioritizing family needs over those of strangers. In an interview on the "Hugh Hewitt Show," Vance downplayed the significance of the Pope's remarks, emphasizing his commitment to his faith despite disagreements.

Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Prevost of Chicago, criticized Vance in a February X post, disagreeing with Vance's assertion that family and community should take precedence over the needs of others. The Pope, quoting from a linked article, stated, "Jesus doesn't ask us to rank our love for others." This criticism echoes similar sentiments expressed by Pope Francis, the previous pontiff, regarding the Trump administration's immigration policies, which Vance has supported.

Vance, who converted to Catholicism in 2019, addressed the controversy on Friday. He stated that he tries "not to play the politicization of the Pope game," acknowledging that he will likely disagree with some of the Pope's statements while continuing to pray for him and the Church. He emphasized that the Church's primary focus is on "saving souls" and spreading the Gospel, rather than being primarily concerned with public policy.

The new Pope's X account, which has previously shared articles critical of Trump's immigration policies, has faced criticism from MAGA figures since his appointment. Far-right commentator Laura Loomer has labeled him as "anti-MAGA" and "woke." Vance's response suggests a desire to maintain a respectful relationship with the Church while minimizing the potential political impact of the Pope's views.

Keywords: J.D. Vance, Pope Leo XIV, criticism, immigration, Donald Trump, Catholic Church, Hugh Hewitt Show, politics, family, community, faith, Cardinal Prevost, MAGA, Laura Loomer, U.S. Pope, religious views, public policy.

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