WASHINGTON D.C. – The election of American Cardinal Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV, while celebrated by many in the United States, has drawn sharp criticism from prominent figures within the “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) movement. These voices, known for their staunchly nationalist and isolationist views, are questioning the new pontiff’s commitment to “America First” principles, citing his emphasis on global unity and social justice as signs of a “globalist” agenda.
The criticism surfaced following Pope Leo XIV’s first Mass, where he called the Church “a beacon to illuminate the dark nights of this world” and emphasized the importance of missionary outreach and solidarity with the marginalized. His focus on addressing global challenges, such as poverty, inequality, and the climate crisis, has been interpreted by some MAGA commentators as a departure from a strictly nationalistic worldview.
“While it’s great to have an American Pope, his message seems more focused on the world than on America,” said a prominent conservative talk show host on a widely viewed podcast. “He’s talking about global unity and social justice, which sounds a lot like the same globalist rhetoric we’ve been fighting against.”
Another influential MAGA blogger echoed these sentiments, writing, “We need a Pope who understands the importance of putting America first. His focus on international issues and his criticisms of materialism and consumerism suggest he may not be aligned with the values of hardworking, patriotic Americans.”
The criticism centers around Pope Leo XIV’s perceived embrace of international cooperation and his advocacy for policies aimed at addressing global inequality. His background as a missionary in Peru, where he spent two decades working with the poor and marginalized, has been cited as evidence of his “globalist” leanings.
“He spent years in Peru, preaching about social justice and criticizing the excesses of capitalism,” said a former Trump administration official on social media. “Now he’s bringing that same message to the Vatican. It’s not what America needs right now.”
The MAGA critique also targets Pope Leo XIV’s apparent alignment with Pope Francis’s emphasis on environmental protection and climate action. Some commentators have characterized these positions as “anti-American” and detrimental to economic growth.
“He’s talking about saving the planet while American businesses are struggling,” said a conservative commentator on a cable news program. “We need a Pope who understands the importance of energy independence and economic prosperity.”
The Vatican has not officially responded to the criticism. However, some Catholic commentators have defended Pope Leo XIV’s message, arguing that it is consistent with the Church’s long-standing teachings on social justice and global solidarity.
“The Pope’s message is rooted in the Gospel and the Church’s tradition of caring for the poor and marginalized,” said a Catholic theologian in an interview with a religious news outlet. “It’s not about being ‘America First’ or ‘Globalist.’ It’s about being Christian.”
The controversy highlights the growing tension between nationalist and globalist ideologies within the United States, even within religious circles. As Pope Leo XIV begins his pontificate, he faces the challenge of navigating these complex political and cultural divides, while remaining true to the universal message of the Catholic Church.