First American Pope Leo XIV’s Inclusive Stance Stirs Tension with America First Movement

The election of Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff in the Catholic Church’s storied history, has sparked a mix of pride and unease. In his inaugural Mass at the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel, Leo XIV echoed his predecessor Pope Francis, vowing to stand with "ordinary people" and linking a decline in faith to societal wounds like violations of human dignity and family crises. His inclusive tone, however, has hit a sour note with some in the America First movement, exposing fault lines between his progressive leanings and the movement’s priorities.

President Donald Trump, a standard-bearer of the America First ethos, celebrated the historic moment, calling it a "Great Honor" for the U.S. and expressing eagerness to meet the Chicago-born pope, who spent much of his life in Peru. Vice President JD Vance, a Catholic, also offered warm congratulations, urging prayers for Leo’s leadership. Yet, beneath the surface, tensions simmer. The pope’s past statements—touching on hot-button issues like immigration, gun control, and the 2020 George Floyd protests—have raised eyebrows among some of Trump’s staunchest supporters.

Conservative firebrand Steve Bannon didn’t mince words, labeling Leo XIV the "worst pick ever" on social media. Others, like commentator Joey Mannarino, accused the pope of criticizing Vance and advocating for open borders, drawing comparisons to Pope Francis’ policies. Charlie Kirk, a prominent MAGA figure, took a more cautious stance, acknowledging Leo’s pro-life credentials but expressing concern over his apparent sympathy for lenient immigration policies. Meanwhile, voices like radio host Hugh Hewitt and former New Hampshire state House Speaker Bill O’Brien struck a hopeful tone, emphasizing respect for the conclave’s choice while noting the pope’s focus on the powerless doesn’t necessarily signal a fully formed stance on national sovereignty.

Leo XIV’s ascent comes at a time when American Catholics, who favored Trump by nearly 60% in the last election, are a key political force. His ability to bridge the divide between his inclusive vision and the America First movement’s priorities will shape his papacy—and its reception on U.S. soil.