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How Pope Leo's Catholic Church Is Influencing US Politics

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Pope Leo XIV arrives to preside over a Holy Mass for the Solemnity of Mary Mother of God as part of the New Year's celebrations in St. Peter's Basilica, at the Vatican, on Jan. 1, 2026.  (Photo by Alberto PIZZOLI / AFP via Getty Images)

Under Pope Leo XIV, the Catholic Church is speaking out against right-wing politics around the world, including President Trump‘s immigration agenda and treatment of migrants. It’s a sharp shift in tone from Pope Francis and a counter to conservatives increasingly invoking faith to defend Trump’s policies.

Scott and Marisa are joined by Christopher Hale, a progressive Catholic and political operative who writes the Letters from Leo Substack. He argues that it’s time for Catholics to decide which path to follow — the Pope’s or Trump’s.

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