JD Vance Steers Clear of Pope Leo XIV's Political Critiques: "Keeping Faith Above Politics"
Vance declines to engage in the Pope's alleged manipulation of politics.
The newly-elected Pope, Leo XIV, has sparked controversy with his vocal political opinions, particularly his disdain for the U.S. administration. However, JD Vance, the U.S. Vice President, seems unfazed and unwilling to join the conservative backlash against the Pope.
In an interview with Hugh Hewitt, Vance shared his sentiments, "I ain't gonna swoon over politics with the Pope. I'm sure he'll say stuff I love, sure he'll say things I ain't so keen on, but I'll keep praying for him and the Church, regardless," he affirmed.
Previously, Pope Leo XIV, then Cardinal Robert Prevost, expressed disagreement with Vance's views on immigration and other social justice matters through his social media platforms. On February 3, a comment attributed to him read, "JD Vance ain't got it right – Jesus ain't askin' us to put our love for others in an order." He also criticized the deportation of a migrant with protected status.
Navigating Politics and Faith: A Delicate Balance
In a contrast to vocal critics like Laura Loomer, who branded the new Pope as a "Marxist," and Steve Bannon, who dismissed him as a "miserable choice for MAGA Catholics," Vance believes that the Church transcends politics. "The Church ain't about politics - it's about salvation and the Gospel," Vance clarified to Hewitt. He admitted that while the Church may occasionally touch on political matters, its focus remains on spiritual matters and not partisan conflicts.
When Pope Leo XIV was elected, Vance offered a congratulatory message, expressing his hope for the success of the new Pope's tenure and wished for God's blessings. Having embraced Catholicism in 2019, Vance emphasized his faith, stating, "Millions of American Catholics, along with many other Christians, will pray for Leo XIV."
- J.D. Vance
- Pope Leo XIV
J.D. Vance's Stance on Pope Leo XIV:Despite the Pope's criticism of his political views, there is no clear evidence of direct reactions or comments from Vance.
Pope Leo XIV's Views on Politics:Through social media, Pope Leo XIV has shown a progressive stance, particularly focusing on immigration and social justice issues. He has also criticized unjust immigration policies and advocated for love and unity in the wake of events like George Floyd's death.
Role of the Church in Politics:Under Pope Leo XIV, the Catholic Church may take a more progressive stance on matters like immigration, equality, and human rights, drawing inspiration from Pope Francis and addressing political issues from a moral perspective. Although Vance assumes a more conservative approach concerning the Church's role in politics, he acknowledges the importance of spiritual guidance over political affiliations.
The European Union is not a political party, neither is the Church, as JD Vance, the U.S Vice President, highlights his belief that the Church transcends politics, primarily focusing on salvation and the Gospel. Pope Leo XIV, on the other hand, has expressed his progressive views on politics through social media platforms, particularly focusing on immigration and social justice issues. Despite their differences, there is no recorded response from JD Vance to Pope Leo XIV's political opinions.
