Historic Papal Election: Pope Leo XIV Becomes First American Pontiff — and Sparks Controversy Among MAGA Supporters

On the evening of May 8, 2025, white smoke rose above the Sistine Chapel, signaling to the world that the Catholic Church had chosen its new leader. Moments later, American-born Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, 69, stepped onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica as Pope Leo XIV — the first pope to take the name “Leo” in more than a century, and the first American pope in history.

“Peace be with you,” Pope Leo began, addressing thousands in St. Peter’s Square and millions more watching around the globe. “This is the peace of the Risen Christ, a disarming, humble, and persevering peace. It comes from God — who loves all of us, without limits or conditions.”

But while Catholics worldwide celebrated the historic moment, a wave of criticism erupted from some corners of the U.S. — particularly among supporters of former President Donald Trump, who wasted no time voicing their discontent.

A Name With Meaning: Why ‘Leo’?

The name “Leo” carries deep historical significance in the Church. CBS papal analyst Candida Moss noted that the last Pope Leo — Leo XIII — reigned from 1878 to 1903. But even more significant is Pope Leo the Great, who famously met with Attila the Hun in the 5th century and persuaded him to spare Rome.

“It might mean that he, too, is going to stand up to oppressive political forces in the world,” Moss said. “Leo is also remembered as a theological reformer.”

From Chicago to the Vatican: Who Is Pope Leo XIV?

Born in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood in 1955 and raised in the suburb of Dolton, Robert Prevost grew up in a devout Catholic family with immigrant roots — French and Spanish. According to his brother John, Pope Leo had an early sense of vocation.

“He knew in first grade he was going to be a priest,” John told NBC. “He went straight from high school seminary to Villanova and then to Peru. He always gave us advice, even as the youngest.”

Leo’s early priesthood led him to Peru, where he served for decades, eventually becoming bishop of Chiclayo. He holds dual U.S.-Peruvian citizenship and was deeply influenced by local cultures.

Former colleagues remember him as humble, kind, and grounded. Rev. John Lyndon, who lived with him for ten years, recalled Leo’s love for music, pizza-making, and parish life.

“He had a good singing voice and a big heart. Every part of the parish wanted to celebrate his birthday. I’m still absorbing the fact that he’s Pope,” Lyndon told the BBC.

Pope Leo XIV’s Vision: Progress Rooted in Tradition

While Leo XIV is considered moderate to progressive in tone, especially in line with Pope Francis, he maintains a conservative stance on doctrine. He supported Francis’ inclusive tone toward LGBTQ+ Catholics and “irregular” couples, but emphasized interpretation based on local cultures.

He has spoken out on climate change, advocated for renewable energy and electric vehicles, and expressed concern about global injustice.

“It’s time to move from words to action,” Leo said last year. “We must build a relationship of reciprocity with creation.”

Trump Congratulates — But His Base Reacts

President Donald Trump issued a congratulatory message on Truth Social:

“Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope. Such an honor for our country — the first American Pope! What excitement and what a great honor for our country.”

Yet, the praise from Trump didn’t match the reaction from many of his most fervent followers.

Some MAGA-aligned influencers and Trump loyalists lashed out at Pope Leo’s past stances on immigration and racial justice, calling him “woke,” “Marxist,” and even “worse than Francis.”

• Right-wing commentator Mike Cernovich claimed the new Pope would “push for abortion” and “open borders.”
• Joe Mannarino, a pro-Trump figure online, labeled Leo a “liberal piece of s***.”
• Vince Langman reposted an old tweet from Prevost criticizing Trump’s immigration policies, writing, “He’s a WOKE Never Trumper liberal.”

Cardinal Prevost had previously spoken out against statements by VP JD Vance, particularly Vance’s ranking of compassion based on national identity. Prevost posted on X (formerly Twitter):

“JD Vance is wrong. Jesus doesn’t ask us to rank our love for others.”

That sentiment resurfaced quickly after Leo’s election — drawing ire from MAGA figures who saw the Pope’s global humanitarian values as a rebuke of their movement.

Faith, Politics, and the Future

The 2025 papal conclave lasted less than 24 hours — swift by Vatican standards. Although Cardinal Tagle of the Philippines was a popular favorite among observers, Leo’s election signaled continuity with Francis’ values, while adding a uniquely American dimension to the Church’s leadership.

His election was a surprise even to his family.

“He didn’t think so,” said John Prevost. “But I kind of did. He was one of three frontrunners. Still, it’s surreal. I didn’t believe it at first — and neither did he.”

Now, as Pope Leo XIV begins his papacy, he faces a divided audience — one that includes a growing number of critics from America’s political far-right. Yet millions of Catholics around the world are celebrating a new chapter led by a man known for integrity, compassion, and a grounded faith.

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