New Pope’s Progressive Views on Immigration and Climate Change Spark Debate Among Conservatives

VATICAN CITY — In a historic and unexpected turn, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old Chicago native, was elected the 267th pope of the Roman Catholic Church on Thursday, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. The announcement, marked by white smoke from the Sistine Chapel and the traditional “Habemus Papam” declaration, makes Prevost the first American pontiff in the Church’s 2,000-year history. His election follows the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, and comes after a two-day conclave of 133 cardinals.

Prevost, who spent much of his career as a missionary in Peru and led the Vatican’s influential Dicastery for Bishops, appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to address a cheering crowd. Speaking in Italian and Spanish, he called for unity and emphasized the Church’s role as a “bridge” to God’s love, echoing the reformist spirit of his predecessor. “Peace be with you,” he said, before leading the faithful in prayer with the Ave Maria.

A Surprising Choice with a Global Perspective

Born in Chicago and ordained in 1982, Prevost’s journey to the papacy was unconventional. His decades in Peru, where he served as a missionary and later as archbishop of Chiclayo, gave him dual American and Peruvian citizenship and a deep connection to Latin America, home to nearly 40% of the world’s Catholics. Appointed a cardinal in 2023 and elevated to cardinal-bishop in 2025, Prevost was considered a “dark horse” candidate, with many expecting a European successor to Pope Francis.

His choice of the name Leo XIV, the first since Pope Leo XIII (1878–1903), signals a nod to a papacy known for addressing social issues during times of crisis. Catholic commentators suggest this choice reflects Prevost’s intent to navigate the Church through today’s geopolitical and doctrinal challenges with strength and compassion.

Past Tweets Reveal Progressive Stances

As news of Prevost’s election spread, attention quickly turned to his social media presence, particularly posts on X under the handle @drprevost. While the Vatican has not officially confirmed the account’s connection to Pope Leo XIV, posts attributed to Prevost reveal progressive views that align with Pope Francis’ legacy. Notably, he has expressed strong support for immigrants, including retweeting a scathing critique of U.S. immigration policies under the Trump administration: “There is nothing remotely Christian, American, or morally defensible about a policy that takes children away from their parents and warehouses them in cages.” Another post questioned whether the administration could “see the suffering” caused by its policies.

Prevost has also voiced concern about climate change, aligning with Pope Francis’ environmental advocacy. In a 2024 post, he praised efforts to address “the moral imperative of caring for our planet,” urging Catholics to act as stewards of creation. These stances, while consistent with the Church’s social justice teachings, have raised eyebrows among conservative Catholics and political commentators in the United States.

Conservative Reactions: Pride Mixed with Skepticism

The election of an American pope has sparked national pride, with figures like President Donald Trump congratulating Prevost on Truth Social, calling it “a Great Honor for our Country” and expressing eagerness to meet him. However, Trump’s enthusiasm contrasts with the unease among some of his supporters, particularly MAGA-aligned conservatives, who have labeled Pope Leo XIV a “WOKE MARXIST POPE” worse than Francis. Far-right activist Laura Loomer criticized Prevost’s support for “illegal aliens” and his defense of “Dreamers,” accusing him of undermining Trump’s immigration policies.

On X, sentiments among conservative users range from cautious optimism to outright dismay. One user, @DahlgrenDDG43, called Prevost “another Communist Progressive in disguise,” while others expressed hope that his diplomatic reputation might temper his progressive leanings. Catholic conservatives, wary of Francis’ reforms, are particularly concerned about Prevost’s centrist approach, which includes supporting marginalized groups but maintaining traditional doctrines, such as opposing the ordination of women as deacons.

A Centrist Bridge-Builder?

Analysts describe Prevost as a centrist who bridges the Church’s progressive and conservative wings. His work under Pope Francis, including adding three women to the voting bloc for bishop nominations, signals a commitment to inclusivity, though he remains conservative on certain doctrinal matters. Rev. Mark Francis, a longtime friend, told Reuters that Prevost is a firm supporter of Francis’ social justice priorities, particularly for migrants and the poor.

As Pope Leo XIV prepares to lead the Angelus on Sunday, the world watches closely. His progressive views on immigration and climate change, rooted in Catholic social teaching, may continue to provoke debate, especially among American conservatives. Yet, his global experience and diplomatic demeanor suggest a papacy aimed at unity in a fractured world. For now, the first American pope stands at the helm of a 1.4 billion-strong Church, ready to chart a new course.