Pope Francis Calls Trump Mass Deportation Policy ‘A Disgrace’/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Pope Francis criticized Donald Trump’s mass deportation plans, calling them a “disgrace” during an Italian talk show appearance. While congratulating Trump on his inauguration, Francis urged the U.S. to uphold its ideals of inclusion and justice. U.S. bishops and cardinals echoed the pope’s opposition, highlighting the conflict with Catholic values.
Pope Francis on Trump’s Deportation Plans Quick Looks
- Pope Francis calls Trump’s deportation agenda a “disgrace.”
- Warns against policies that burden the vulnerable and poor.
- Congratulates Trump, urging him to build an inclusive society.
- U.S. bishops denounce deportation plans as incompatible with doctrine.
- Francis emphasizes migrant dignity over national security concerns.
Pope Francis Calls Trump Mass Deportation Policy ‘A Disgrace’
Deep Look
Pope Francis Denounces Trump’s Immigration Plans, Urges Inclusivity
Introduction: A Message of Concern
Pope Francis has strongly criticized incoming U.S. President Donald Trump’s plans for mass deportations of immigrants, labeling them a “disgrace.” The remarks came during an appearance on the popular Italian talk show Che Tempo Che Fa and were followed by a telegram of congratulations sent to Trump on the day of his inauguration.
Francis, the first Latin American pope and a vocal advocate for migrants, expressed concern that such policies unfairly target society’s most vulnerable and fail to address underlying issues.
Criticism of Deportation Plans
On Sunday evening, Francis responded to a question about Trump’s campaign promises to deport millions of immigrants. “If true, this will be a disgrace, because it makes the poor wretches who have nothing pay the bill for the problem,” he said. “This won’t do! This is not the way to solve things.”
Trump, who made immigration reform a cornerstone of his campaign, has pledged to sign orders on his first day in office to begin implementing these policies, including restarting mass deportations and tightening border security.
A History of Clashes
This is not the first time Francis has criticized Trump’s immigration stance. During Trump’s 2016 campaign, the pope famously stated that building walls to exclude migrants is “not Christian,” remarks made after celebrating Mass near the U.S.-Mexico border.
The renewed criticism comes as Trump prepares to reshape U.S. immigration policies, potentially igniting further tensions between the Vatican and the White House.
Congratulatory Telegram with a Caution
Despite his sharp critique, Francis sent Trump a congratulatory telegram on Monday, emphasizing the importance of justice and inclusivity in leadership.
“It is my hope that under your leadership the American people will prosper and always strive to build a more just society, where there is no room for hatred, discrimination or exclusion,” he wrote.
Francis also prayed for the U.S. to remain a beacon of opportunity and welcome for all, reiterating his longstanding advocacy for migrants’ rights and dignity.
U.S. Bishops Echo Concerns
Prominent U.S. bishops have also voiced opposition to Trump’s deportation plans. Cardinal Robert McElroy, the incoming archbishop of Washington, D.C., called such policies “incompatible with Catholic doctrine,” citing the biblical mandate to “welcome the stranger.”
Chicago Cardinal Blasé Cupich described reports of targeted deportations in his city as “profoundly disturbing” and emphasized the church’s dual commitment to protecting borders and defending human dignity. “Governments have responsibilities, but so do we as a society,” Cupich stated from the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City.
Francis’ Longstanding Advocacy for Migrants
As the son of Italian immigrants who settled in Argentina, Pope Francis has consistently championed the rights of migrants, urging governments to balance national security with humanitarian responsibility. He has called for countries to welcome, protect, and integrate migrants, prioritizing their dignity and rights over exclusionary policies.
“Human dignity comes first,” Francis has said repeatedly. This ethos underscores his broader message of compassion, solidarity, and global responsibility.
Conclusion: A Challenge for Leadership
As Trump begins his presidency with promises to enforce strict immigration measures, Pope Francis’ critique serves as a moral challenge to the new administration. By calling attention to the human cost of such policies, the pope underscores the tension between political agendas and the universal values of compassion and inclusion.
You must Register or Login to post a comment.