JD Vance Responds to Pope’s Critique of US Immigration Policy/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Vice President JD Vance acknowledged Pope Francis’ criticism of the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown while speaking at the National Catholic Prayer Breakfast on Friday. However, Vance did not directly address the Pope’s specific concerns, instead emphasizing his respect for the pontiff and his leadership. A recent dispute emerged after Francis condemned mass deportations and seemingly rebutted Vance’s use of Catholic tradition to justify strict immigration policies. Vance, a Catholic convert, called himself a “baby Catholic” and admitted he is still learning about the faith.
JD Vance and Pope Francis: Quick Looks
- Vice President JD Vance responds to Pope Francis’ critique of Trump’s immigration policies.
- Vance does not engage in debate, instead emphasizing respect for the Pope’s leadership.
- Francis condemned mass deportations, citing the moral duty to uphold human dignity.
- Vance previously used Catholic teaching on “ordo amoris” to defend America-first immigration policies.
- Bishops criticized Vance for claiming they take government money to resettle “illegal immigrants”.
- US Catholic leaders continue battling the Trump administration over refugee funding cuts.
JD Vance Responds to Pope’s Critique of US Immigration Policy
Deep Look: VP JD Vance Addresses Pope Francis’ Immigration Criticism
Vice President JD Vance sought to strike a conciliatory tone Friday as he addressed Pope Francis’ pointed criticism of the Trump administration’s immigration policies.
Vance at the National Catholic Prayer Breakfast
Speaking at the National Catholic Prayer Breakfast in Washington, Vance acknowledged the Pope’s concerns but chose not to directly respond to the Vatican’s rebuke. Instead, he emphasized his respect for the Pope’s leadership and led a prayer for Francis’ recovery from pneumonia.
“He cares about the flock of Christians under his leadership,” Vance said.
He also noted that he was not at the event to debate “who’s right and who’s wrong”, though he insisted he would continue to defend his immigration stance.
Pope Francis’ Rebuke of Trump’s Immigration Policies
Earlier in February, Pope Francis strongly condemned the Trump administration’s plan for mass deportations, warning that such actions strip migrants of their inherent dignity.
In what appeared to be a direct response to Vance, the Pope also challenged the vice president’s use of “ordo amoris”—a Catholic teaching that emphasizes prioritizing love for those closest to us.
- Vance had previously cited this teaching to justify strict border enforcement, arguing that Americans must first care for their own families and communities.
- Francis countered by referencing the Good Samaritan parable, insisting that Christian love must extend to all, not just those within one’s immediate circle.
Vance’s Response: A “Baby Catholic” Still Learning
On Friday, Vance did not directly engage in theological debate but admitted that he is still learning about the Catholic faith, having converted in 2019.
“There are things about the faith that I don’t know,” Vance said. “I try to be humble because, of course, I’m not always going to get it right.”
He also acknowledged receiving criticism from some Catholic bishops, though he did not directly mention the latest controversy.
Bishops Condemn Vance’s Claims on Immigration Funding
Vance’s tensions with Catholic leaders have grown, particularly after he accused the US Conference of Catholic Bishops of taking government money to resettle ‘illegal immigrants’.
- In reality, the bishops’ organization receives funding to resettle legally approved refugees.
- The US Catholic Church is currently battling the Trump administration in court over the sudden cut-off of these funds.
- Cardinal Timothy Dolan called Vance’s accusations “scurrilous”, defending the Church’s role in helping vulnerable migrants.
A Widening Divide Between Trump and the Vatican?
With Catholic leaders actively opposing Trump’s refugee policies, the rhetoric from both sides may escalate further, shaping future discussions on faith, politics, and immigration policy in the US.
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