The Globalist

Who is Pope Leo XIV, America’s first pontiff?

17 snips
May 9, 2025
Juliet Linley, a journalist and former Vatican correspondent, Lynne O'Donnell, a columnist for Foreign Policy, and Ruth Michelson, a Middle East correspondent, dive into the historic election of Cardinal Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV, America’s first pontiff. They discuss his potential to balance traditional Catholic values with progressive social issues. The conversation tackles his critiques of political figures and immigration policies, while also examining the global implications of his leadership amidst shifting geopolitical alliances.
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INSIGHT

Pope Leo XIV's Global Identity

  • Pope Leo XIV is the first American-born pope, but he brings a global, multi-lingual background influenced by his 20 years in Peru.
  • He signals a new chapter for the church by blending American roots with international experience and multicultural outreach.
INSIGHT

American Pope Breaks Old Norms

  • Pope Leo XIV gained quick broad support, reflecting a unity desire after contenders mostly included Italians and conservatives.
  • His election breaks old norms that long excluded American popes to avoid political perceptions of U.S. government influence in the church.
INSIGHT

Leo XIV's Immigration Critique

  • Pope Leo XIV publicly critiques MAGA and Trump-era immigration policies, prioritizing compassion and inclusion over nationalist exclusion.
  • He emphasizes building bridges over walls, signaling a more progressive stance on immigration rooted in Christian teaching.
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