Pope Subtly Responds After Trump Claims Role in His Appointment
Just hours after Donald Trump made the startling claim that he had something to do with the appointment of Pope Leo XIV, the new pontiff delivered a carefully worded address that many believe was a not-so-subtle rebuke of the former president.
Tense Vatican Coverage
On May 11, ABC’s This Week aired live from the Vatican, where host Martha Raddatz and senior national correspondent Terry Moran discussed Pope Leo’s first Sunday blessing. The historic occasion marked the first time an American—Cardinal Robert Prevost of Chicago—had been elected pope.
“The question was, did President Trump have any influence?” Moran asked. “They’re telling us: absolutely not. It was Prevost who mattered.”
Raddatz agreed, saying, “That’s what we’ve been hearing all morning. It was him.”
The implication that Trump played no role in the appointment didn’t sit well in certain circles—namely, Trump’s.
Trump Fires Back on Truth Social
Later that day, Trump posted a rant on Truth Social, mocking the ABC segment and insisting he had an impact on Pope Leo’s rise.
“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,” Trump wrote. “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!!!”
Backlash Ensues
Social media users were quick to condemn Trump’s bizarre post, with one calling it “deplorable” and others expressing disbelief that he would try to take credit for the papal election—a process strictly decided by the College of Cardinals, not U.S. voters.
“Trump is literally trying to take credit for Pope Leo XIV being chosen as the current Pope,” one user wrote. “Does he realize American Catholics don’t elect the pope?”
Pope’s Message of Peace—and Subtle Critique
On May 12, Pope Leo addressed over 1,000 journalists at a Vatican press event, where he championed respectful communication and the free press—without ever naming Trump directly.
“We must say ‘no’ to the war of words and images... Let us disarm communication of all prejudice and resentment, fanaticism and even hatred,” the Pope said. “We do not need loud, forceful communication but rather communication that is capable of listening.”
He also urged the international community to stand up for imprisoned journalists and to safeguard the “precious gift of free speech.”
A Gentle Swipe?
While the Pope didn’t reference Trump or any government explicitly, many online interpreted his words as a direct counter to Trump’s combative tone and frequent media attacks.
“New Pope delivers speech that sure seems like shade at Trump,” one user tweeted. Another added, “Pope takes swipe at those who attack journalists – as Trump rages about ‘fake news.’”
Final Word
After the speech, when asked by a reporter if he had a message for the U.S., Pope Leo smiled and said, “Many. God bless you all.”
Trump has not formally responded to the Pope’s remarks. The Vatican, meanwhile, appears content to let the message speak for itself.