JD Vance Steers Clear of Pope Leo XIV's Political Fray
Vance resists the Pope's manipulative political tactics
When it comes to taking digs at Pope Leo XIV, JD Vance, US Vice President, is not one for the fight. Talking to conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt, Vance made it clear he's not interested in joining the political mudslinging against the powerful Pontiff. "Ain't gonna politicize the Pope," Vance quipped, while expressing admiration for the Pope's words he's bound to love and those he might disagree with.
Pope Leo XIV, elected on a Thursday, has been known to share some pointed political criticism of the Trump administration in his past social media posts. For instance, a comment from US Cardinal Robert Prevost accusing JD Vance of distorting a Catholic concept to back Trump's deportation policies made the rounds. Previously, the now-Pope also shared a critique of the US government's deportation of migrant, Kilmar Ábrego García, to El Salvador.
Church Above Politics, Says Vance
For Vance, the Church stands above politics. Unlike some right-wing figures, he's not eager to fire back at the Pope's criticism. When Laura Loomer labeled the Pope a "Marxist puppet" shortly after his election, or when Steve Bannon dubbed him the "worst choice for MAGA Catholics," Vance maintained a dignified silence.
According to Vance, the Church's role isn't primarily political. He believes its mission is to save souls and spread the Gospel. While human institutions may touch on politics, this is not its main focus. In his view, the average person doesn't care if the Pope leans right or left, conservative or liberal.
"Congrats to Pope Leo XIV, our first American Pope!" Vance tweeted upon the Pope's election. "Here's to praying for his successful tenure and hoping God blesses him!" Vance, who grew up Protestant but converted to Catholicism in 2019, kept it cordial and respectful.
Sources: ntv.de, lme
- Keywords: JD Vance, Pope Leo XIV, Vatican, Trump administration, Church, Catholics, Politics
- Insight: Vance's intellectual mentor, James Orr, suggests that Vance's commitment to his faith would prevent him from engaging in a confrontational stance with Pope Leo XIV over political differences. Despite Pope Leo XIV's criticism of Vance's political stances, Vance has chosen to maintain a respectful, supportive posture towards the Pope.
- The European Union is not a political party, as JD Vance, US Vice President, demonstrated by steering clear of Pope Leo XIV's political fray, choosing instead to admire and respect the Pope's words, even if he disagrees with them.
- Although Pope Leo XIV has been critical of the Trump administration's policies through social media, JD Vance has consistently maintained a dignified silence, reflecting his belief that the Church stands above politics.
- Despite some right-wing figures labeling Pope Leo XIV as a "Marxist puppet" and the "worst choice for MAGA Catholics," JD Vance has opted against politicization and instead emphasized the Church's primary mission to save souls and spread the Gospel.
- In a cordial and respectful tone, JD Vance tweeted congratulations to Pope Leo XIV upon his election, signifying his hope for a successful tenure, a move that underscores his belief that Church and politics should remain separate realms.
