The first-ever U.S. pope in history has been confirmed, but not all Americans are celebrating the momentous occasion.
While President Donald Trump was quick to express the “honor” of having the first American pope, right-wing political activist and internet personality Laura Loomer shared quite the opposite view.
On May 8, white smoke billowed out of the Sistine Chapel chimney, and along with it came the announcement that Cardinal Robert Prevost had been elected as the 267th pontiff, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. Born in Chicago, this marked him as the first-ever American pope.
Since then, Prevost’s past comments on Trump’s policies have resurfaced on social media, and Loomer, a controversial figure known for her outspoken and often inflammatory views, didn’t hold back with her scathing remarks.
Pope Leo XIV’s Comments on Trump’s Policies
Prevost had reposted a tweet that criticized the Trump administration’s immigration policies, stating:
“As Trump & Bukele use Oval to Feds’ illicit deportation of a US resident, once an undoc-ed Salvadorean himself, now-DC Aux +Evelio asks, ‘Do you not see the suffering? Is your conscience not disturbed? How can you stay quiet?’”
Additionally, Prevost had shared another tweet reading:
“There is nothing remotely Christian, American, or morally defensible about a policy that takes children away from their parents and warehouses them in cages. This is being carried out in our name and the shame is on us all.”
The newly elected pope also criticized Trump’s vice president, JD Vance, resharing an op-ed from National Catholic Reporter titled: “JD Vance is wrong: Jesus doesn’t ask us to rank our love for others.”
These resurfaced comments quickly became a point of contention, particularly among Trump supporters who felt that Prevost’s views might not align with their own political and religious values.
Laura Loomer’s Outspoken Attack on Pope Leo XIV
Laura Loomer, a vocal Trump supporter and far-right activist, didn’t hold back when expressing her disapproval of the newly elected pope. Known for her inflammatory statements and conspiratorial views, Loomer took to X (formerly Twitter) to slam Pope Leo XIV as an “anti-Trump, anti-MAGA, pro-open borders, and a total Marxist.”
“Catholics don’t have anything good to look forward to,” Loomer wrote. “Just another Marxist puppet in the Vatican.”
Loomer’s harsh criticism didn’t stop there. In another post, she simply referred to Pope Leo XIV as a “WOKE MARXIST POPE.”
Loomer, who has also gained notoriety for her controversial claims about various political figures, further added fuel to the fire by questioning the pope’s stance on immigration and labeling him a proponent of left-wing ideologies. Loomer’s remarks were quickly picked up by both supporters and detractors, amplifying the growing divide over the pope’s views and his relationship with the U.S. right-wing.
Loomer’s Background and Influence
Loomer, who has previously made headlines for her conspiracy theories and controversial opinions, is no stranger to making divisive statements. Her claim that Kamala Harris is not truly Black and her assertion that George Soros’ son was “sending cryptic messages calling for Trump’s assassination” have led to widespread condemnation and her subsequent banning from multiple social media platforms.
Her strong and often offensive views—particularly those targeting Muslims—have earned her a reputation as a polarizing figure. Loomer’s influence within Trump’s circle remains a subject of scrutiny, and she is reportedly behind some of Trump’s decisions, such as his dismissal of National Security Council members she deemed disloyal, though Trump has denied this involvement.
Laura Loomer is known for her outspoken views and support of President Trump (John Lamparski/Getty Image)
Loomer’s Criticism of the New Pope
On X, Loomer expressed her frustration with the new pope’s political leanings, emphasizing her belief that Pope Leo XIV’s stance on immigration was dangerously left-wing. Her comments centered around the pope’s past criticisms of Trump’s immigration policies, particularly his stance on deportations and family separations.
“His name is Robert Prevost,” Loomer posted. “He’s the first American Pope. He is anti-Trump, anti-MAGA, pro-open Borders, and a total Marxist like Pope Francis. Catholics don’t have anything good to look forward to. Just another Marxist puppet in the Vatican.”
Loomer’s posts have sparked debates within the Catholic community, with some conservative Catholic commentators voicing concern over what they see as the pope’s left-leaning stance, while others argue that the pope’s positions align with long-standing Catholic teachings on social justice.
Pope Leo XIV’s Relationship with Trump and U.S. Politics
While President Trump expressed excitement over the election of Pope Leo XIV, calling it “a great honor for our country,” Loomer’s comments illustrate the deepening divide between the U.S. right-wing and the Vatican. Trump’s praise for the pope, despite their ideological differences, suggests that the relationship between the two figures could be more complicated than it seems.
As the first American pope, Leo XIV’s potential influence on U.S. politics, especially regarding immigration reform and human rights, will undoubtedly be scrutinized. His progressive views on social issues, as indicated by his past social media posts, could put him at odds with Trump and his supporters, particularly on issues like immigration and family separation.
In the coming months, Pope Leo XIV’s interactions with the U.S. administration will likely be closely watched. His previous comments, coupled with Loomer’s scathing attack, highlight the potential for tension between the Vatican and the right-wing factions of U.S. politics. The pope’s first meeting with President Trump, scheduled for later this year, could be a defining moment in shaping the future of Vatican-U.S. relations.
https://x.com/LauraLoomer/status/1920537118041854297
Conclusion: A Divisive Beginning
Pope Leo XIV’s election marks a historic moment in the Catholic Church, but the early reactions to his papacy demonstrate the challenges he may face in balancing his progressive stance with the political realities of the U.S. administration. While Trump has publicly expressed support for the new pope, figures like Laura Loomer are already voicing their opposition, labeling Pope Leo XIV as a “Marxist puppet” and highlighting the ideological rift between the Vatican and the right-wing in America.
The future of Pope Leo XIV’s papacy will likely be shaped by his interactions with global and U.S. political figures, and his approach to key social issues such as immigration and social justice. With strong support from the global Catholic community but increasing resistance from U.S. conservatives, the pope’s leadership will undoubtedly be tested in the coming years.
As the first American pope, Leo XIV’s legacy may be one of bridging ideological divides and advocating for compassionate policies, or it could be marked by ongoing tension with those who disagree with his progressive views. Only time will tell how his papacy will unfold, but one thing is certain: the clash between his values and the political realities of the U.S. will be a defining feature of his pontificate.
