Pope Leo XIV, formerly known as Cardinal Robert Prevost, has made his position on immigration clear: he believes in treating all people with compassion and dignity, regardless of their origins.

This belief has sparked tension with U.S. political figures like Vice President JD Vance and former President Donald Trump.

Pope Pushes Back on JD Vance’s Interpretation of Love

In early 2025, JD Vance delivered a speech focused on the idea of “ordo amoris,” a Latin phrase meaning “order of love.” Vance argued that individuals should prioritize caring for their own families and fellow citizens before extending compassion to outsiders, such as immigrants.

Pope Leo XIV, however, found this view too narrow. He maintained that love shouldn’t be restricted by borders or identity. As The Daily Beast reported, the pope liked and shared social media posts that challenged Vance’s remarks. His support for Pope Francis’s belief—that love should be universal and not based on someone’s background—remained firm.

He Also Opposed Trump’s Immigration Policies

Long before becoming pope, Leo XIV criticized Donald Trump’s approach to immigration. He was outspoken about the harsh treatment of people seeking safety or opportunity in the U.S.