VATICAN CITY – Pope Leo XIV, recently elected in May 2025, has underscored the Catholic Church's unwavering commitment to the dignity and respect of immigrants, a stance that contrasts sharply with the immigration policies of former U.S. President Donald Trump. A tweet from Christopher Hale, a prominent commentator, highlighted this position, stating, "Pope Leo took President Trump to task today in a new letter that declared immigrants are children of God who deserve dignity and respect." This statement reflects the new pontiff's consistent advocacy for vulnerable populations.
The newly elected Pope, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, chose the papal name Leo XIV in homage to Pope Leo XIII, whose 1891 encyclical "Rerum Novarum" laid the groundwork for modern Catholic social teaching. This foundational document emphasizes human dignity and the rights of workers, principles that Pope Leo XIV has explicitly extended to the contemporary challenges faced by migrants. His personal background as a descendant of immigrants further informs his compassionate approach to the issue.
Prior to his election, as Cardinal Prevost, Pope Leo XIV used his social media platform to voice criticisms of former President Trump's immigration policies. His brother, John Prevost, confirmed the Pope's strong feelings, stating he is "not happy with what's going on with immigration." Since assuming the papacy, Pope Leo XIV has continued to advocate for the vulnerable, urging respect for "the dignity of every person, especially the most frail and vulnerable, from the unborn to the elderly, from the sick to the unemployed, citizens and immigrants alike."
Despite the Pope's clear stance, former President Trump extended congratulations upon Leo XIV's election, expressing a desire to meet the new pontiff. The Catholic Church's consistent teaching on the inherent dignity of all human life, including migrants and refugees, continues to be a significant voice in global discussions on immigration. Pope Leo XIV's papacy is expected to further amplify this message, building upon the legacy of Catholic social justice.