While Catholics around the globe rejoiced in this historic occasion, a surge of criticism emerged from certain factions in the U.S., particularly among supporters of former President Donald Trump, who promptly expressed their dissatisfaction.
The name ‘Leo’ holds profound historical importance within the Church. CBS papal analyst Candida Moss highlighted that the last Pope Leo, Leo XIII, served from 1878 to 1903. More notably, Pope Leo the Great is remembered for his encounter with Attila the Hun in the 5th century, where he successfully persuaded him to spare Rome.
Moss remarked, ‘This may suggest that he, too, will confront oppressive political forces globally. Leo is also recognized as a theological reformer.’ Born in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood in 1955 and raised in Dolton, Robert Prevost grew up in a devout Catholic family with immigrant heritage from France and Spain.
His brother John shared that Pope Leo had an early calling, stating, ‘He realized in first grade that he wanted to be a priest.’ He transitioned directly from high school seminary to Villanova and then to Peru, consistently offering guidance to his family, even as the youngest.
Leo’s early priestly journey took him to Peru, where he dedicated decades of service, ultimately becoming the bishop of Chiclayo. He possesses dual U.S.-Peruvian citizenship and was significantly influenced by the local cultures. Former colleagues remember him as humble, kind, and down-to-earth.
Rev. John Lyndon, who shared a residence with him for ten years, reminisced about Leo’s passion for music, pizza-making, and parish life, noting, ‘He had a wonderful singing voice and a generous spirit. Every segment of the parish looked forward to celebrating his birthday.
Certain MAGA-aligned influencers and staunch supporters of Trump have criticized Pope Leo for his historical views on immigration and racial justice, labeling him as ‘woke,’ ‘Marxist,’ and even ‘worse than Francis.’ Right-wing commentator Mike Cernovich asserted that the new Pope would advocate for ‘abortion’ and ‘open borders.’
Joe Minarine, a pro-Trump online personality, referred to Leo as a ‘liberal piece of s***.’ Vince Langman shared an old tweet from Cardinal Prevost that condemned Trump’s immigration policies, stating, ‘He’s a WOKE Never Trumper liberal.’
Cardinal Prevost had previously criticized VP JD Vance for his comments on compassion being contingent on national identity, posting on X (formerly Twitter): ‘JD Vance is wrong. Jesus doesn’t ask us to rank our love for others.’
This sentiment quickly gained traction following Leo’s election, provoking backlash from MAGA supporters who interpreted the Pope’s global humanitarian principles as a challenge to their ideology. The 2025 papal conclave concluded in under 24 hours, a rapid process by Vatican standards.
While Cardinal Tagle from the Philippines was a favored candidate among observers, Leo’s election indicated a continuation of Francis’ values, infused with a distinctly American perspective in the Church’s leadership. His election surprised even his family.
‘He didn’t think so,’ remarked John Prevost. ‘But I kind of did. He was one of three frontrunners. Still, it’s surreal. I didn’t believe it at first — and neither did he.’
As Pope Leo XIV embarks on his papacy, he encounters a polarized audience, including an increasing number of critics from the far-right in America. Nevertheless, millions of Catholics globally are embracing this new chapter under a leader recognized for his integrity, compassion, and grounded faith.
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