Pope Francis has consistently voiced criticism of former US President Donald Trump’s anti-migrant policies, challenging political rhetoric that promotes exclusion over compassion.
In February 2016, during Trump’s presidential campaign, the pontiff made headlines by questioning the compatibility of anti-immigration stances with Christian values. “Anyone, whoever he is, who only wants to build walls and not bridges is not a Christian,” Francis said, referencing Trump’s proposed border wall with Mexico.
The pope’s advocacy for migrant rights extended into last year when he addressed harsh anti-migrant sentiments in the United States, describing such attitudes as “madness.”
He also took aim at right-wing Catholic figures in the US, urging them to move away from overly conservative ideologies that, according to him, neglect the Church’s teachings on compassion and care for the vulnerable.
Francis’ comments reflect his broader mission of promoting inclusivity and solidarity, particularly for migrants and refugees, as he continues to challenge policies and perspectives that marginalize these groups.