Just after Donald Trump claimed he influenced the pope’s appointment, Pope Leo XIV appeared to subtly push back during a Vatican press conference.
On May 11, ABC’s Martha Raddatz reported live from the Vatican for This Week, joined by ABC’s Terry Moran. Moran dismissed Trump’s involvement, saying it was Cardinal Robert Prevost, a Chicago-born cleric, who mattered in the historic selection—the first American pope.
Trump fired back on Truth Social, mocking Raddatz and claiming credit for the pope’s rise: “Remember, I did WIN the Catholic Vote, by a lot!”
His post sparked backlash online, with many calling it “deplorable,” “embarrassing,” and narcissistic.
On May 12, Pope Leo addressed over 1,000 journalists, promoting respectful communication, press freedom, and a rejection of “aggression” and “fanaticism.” While he didn’t name Trump, many interpreted his message as a pointed rebuke of the former president’s combative media style.
When asked if he had a message for the U.S., the pope smiled and said, “Many. God bless you all.”
Trump has yet to officially respond, but his post remains a lightning rod for criticism, while the Vatican moves forward with Leo’s call for unity and dialogue.