Pope Leo XIV’s remarks during his inaugural press conference as the leader of the Catholic Church have been seen by some as an indirect critique of Donald Trump. This follows Trump’s peculiar assertion that he played a role in Pope Leo’s election, despite having no involvement in the conclave that selects the pope.
Pope Leo’s election is historic as he is the first American to be chosen as the head of the Catholic Church. Trump, however, claimed that his influence in the White House contributed to this outcome, referencing his success with Catholic voters.
On May 12, Trump posted on Truth Social, asserting that his win of the Catholic vote impacted Pope Leo’s selection. He used this claim to attack ABC’s Martha Raddatz.
He wrote: “So funny to watch old timer Martha Raditz on ABC Fake News (the Slopadopolus show!) this morning, blurt out that, effectively, Pope Leo’s selection had nothing to do with Donald Trump.”
“It came out of nowhere, but it was on her Trump Deranged Mind. Remember, I did WIN the Catholic Vote, by a lot! Bob Iger should do something about the losers and haters he’s got on his low rated shows. It’s time for change. MAGA!!!”
Later that day, Pope Leo addressed the media in his first press conference, which some interpreted as a critique of Trump, who has historically had a contentious relationship with the media.
Speaking in Italian at the Vatican on May 12, Pope Leo emphasized the need for understanding and dialogue, commending journalists for their contributions—an approach notably different from Trump’s media criticisms.
Pope Leo stated: “The way we communicate is of fundamental importance: We must say ‘no’ to the war of words and images, we must reject the paradigm of war.”
“Let us disarm communication of all prejudice and resentment, fanaticism, and even hatred; let us free it from aggression. We do not need loud, forceful communication, but rather communication that is capable of listening and of gathering the voices of the weak who have no voice.”
He also acknowledged the bravery of journalists working in perilous conditions, praising their commitment to informing the public despite the risks involved.
He remarked: “The Church recognizes these witnesses—I am thinking of those who report on war even at the cost of their lives—the courage of those who defend dignity, justice, and the right of people to be informed, because only informed individuals can make free choices.”
Some observers believed his statement about ‘loud, forceful communication’ was directed at Trump, known for his emphatic Truth Social posts and controversial remarks. This sentiment was echoed on Twitter, where a user linked the pope’s comments to Trump with a tweet tagging @WhiteHouse and @realDonaldTrump.
Others labeled the pope’s remarks as ‘shading Trump.’
During the press conference, when asked by NewsNation correspondent Robert Sherman if he had a message for the United States, Pope Leo’s concise response was: “Many. God bless you all.”