Introduction

In an unprecedented development for the Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago was elected on May 8, 2025, as Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first American to occupy the papal throne. Almost immediately after the white smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney, marking the conclusion of the conclave, former President Donald Trump offered his congratulations via Truth Social, hailing the election as “a Great Honor for our Country.”

However, in the days since Pope Leo XIV’s elevation, a series of his past social-media posts—originally shared under his birth name—has resurfaced, casting fresh light on his attitudes toward key American political figures and policies. Among these are pointed critiques of immigration enforcement measures and of comments by Vice President J.D. Vance. Now, as President Trump prepares to meet the new pontiff, many observers are asking: How will Pope Leo XIV’s previously expressed views shape his relationship with the U.S. administration?

This in-depth, web-optimized report examines: