Steve Bannon has predicted there will be friction between U.S. President Donald Trump and Pope Leo.
Speaking to British media, Trump’s former chief strategist outlined the relationship he believes the president and the new Pope may have.
Why It Matters
Pope Leo XIV assumed leadership of the Catholic Church on May 8, 2025. He was born in Chicago, Illinois and was appointed as prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops by Pope Francis in 2023.
While little concrete is known about the new Pope’s political leanings, he has expressed concerns about the plight of the poor and immigrants and appears to have supported his liberal-leaning predecessor, Pope Francis.
An X account under his name has also previously shared links criticizing Trump’s approach to immigration.
In April, he reposted a commentary that criticized a 2024 Trump meeting with El Salvador President Nayib Bukele about deportation logistics, saying: “Do you not see the suffering? Is your conscience not disturbed?”
He also shared an opinion piece criticizing Trump’s Vice President, JD Vance.
What To Know
Speaking to the BBC, Bannon said Pope Leo’s election was “kind of jaw-dropping.”
“It is shocking to me that a guy could be selected to be the Pope that had had the Twitter feed and the statements he’s had against American senior politicians,” he said, adding that there’s “definitely going to be friction” between him and Trump.
He added that Trump would react if the Pope takes a stand against him. “Remember, President Trump was not shy about taking a shot at Pope Francis,” he said.
“So if this Pope – which he will do – tries to come between President Trump and his implementation of the mass deportation programme, I would stand by.”
What People Are Saying
John Prevost, the Pope’s brother, told The New York Times about potential points of disagreement between Trump and the Pope.
“I know he’s not happy with what’s going on with immigration,” he said. “I know that for a fact. How far he’ll go with it is only one’s guess, but he won’t just sit back. I don’t think he’ll be the silent one.”
Laura Loomer, far-right influencer called the new Pope “anti-Trump, anti-Maga, pro-open Borders, and a total Marxist like Pope Francis”.
Trump reacted to Leo’s selection, writing on Truth Social: “Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was just named Pope. It is such an honor to realize that he is the first American Pope. What excitement, and what a Great Honor for our Country. I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment!”
What Happens Next
As Leo’s papacy continues, the extent to which tensions between him and Trump will emerge remains to be seen. The Pope used his first Sunday blessing at the Vatican to call for an end to wars across the world, including in Gaza and Ukraine.
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