Pope Leo’s Subtle Takedown of Donald Trump’s Claims
Just hours after Donald Trump made a bold and unexpected claim that he played a role in Pope Leo XIV’s appointment, the pontiff delivered a powerful message during a press conference that many believe was a subtle jab at the U.S. President.
On May 11, ABC’s Martha Raddatz hosted a live roundtable discussion from the Vatican, marking Pope Leo XIV’s first Sunday blessing. Joining her was ABC News senior national correspondent, Terry Moran. The conversation quickly turned to the historic appointment of the first American pope.
“The big question was, how much did the American moment with President Trump matter?” Moran asked. “And they’re telling us, not at all. It was [Prevost] that mattered.”
Raddatz echoed the sentiment, confirming the Chicago-born Cardinal Robert Prevost’s significance in the selection.
The implication that Donald Trump had no influence on the cardinal’s decision didn’t sit well with the White House. In a typical Trump move, the former president took to Truth Social to vent his frustration, suggesting that he was, in fact, instrumental in the appointment.
Trump ranted, “So funny to watch old timer Martha Raditz on ABC Fake News (the Slopadopolus show!) this morning, blurt out that, effectively, Pope Leo’s selection had nothing to do with Donald Trump. It came out of nowhere, but it was on her Trump Deranged Mind. Remember, I did WIN the Catholic Vote, by a lot! Bob Iger should do something about the losers and haters he’s got on his low-rated shows. It’s time for change. MAGA!!!”
The internet quickly reacted, with many users expressing disbelief at Trump’s claims. One user called the post “deplorable,” while another sarcastically asked, “Is Trump claiming he had something to do with the election of the pope? Embarrassing.” A third comment read, “What a narcissist! Trump is literally trying to take credit for Pope Leo XIV being chosen as the current Pope. Trump does realize that American Catholics have nothing to do with choosing the Pope, right?”
However, the real twist came the following day. On May 12, hours after Trump’s post made waves on social media, Pope Leo XIV took the stage in Vatican City to address over 1,000 journalists. His speech, which championed the value of free speech and the role of the press, seemed to carry an indirect but unmistakable message.
“The way we communicate is of fundamental importance,” the pope said in his Italian address, according to Reuters. “We must say ‘no’ to the war of words and images. We must reject the paradigm of war. Let us disarm communication of all prejudice and resentment, fanaticism, and even hatred. Let us free it from aggression.”
The pontiff’s call for peaceful, thoughtful communication seemed to take a thinly-veiled shot at the combative rhetoric often seen from the White House, especially in the form of Trump’s late-night tirades and personal attacks.
Without ever mentioning Trump or the U.S. government directly, Pope Leo’s message resonated deeply with those who follow the political communication of Washington. His advocacy for respectful, calm discourse was seen by many as a direct counter to Trump’s inflammatory claims.
In his address, Pope Leo also advocated for the release of imprisoned journalists, calling their suffering a challenge to the conscience of nations. “We must safeguard the precious gift of free speech and of the press,” he said.
Although the pope’s words were diplomatic, there’s no mistaking the underlying shade. As the world watched, it was clear that Pope Leo XIV had delivered a message that, while not explicit, was certainly aimed at those who use words to stir division rather than promote peace.
Pope’s Speech Sparks Social Media Buzz – Is It a Shade Toward Trump?
The pope’s recent speech had social media buzzing, with many users interpreting his comments as a subtle swipe at former President Donald Trump.
One user tweeted, “New Pope delivers speech that sure seems like shade at Trump.” Another added, “Pope takes swipe at those who attack journalists – as Trump rages about ‘fake news.’” A third user wrote, “While Trump rants about ‘fake news’ and attacks journalists daily, Pope Leo strikes a blow for freedom of speech and the press!”
Following the speech, Pope Leo walked through the crowd and was approached by NewsNation correspondent Robert Sherman, who asked if the pontiff had “any message” for the United States.
The pope responded with a warm smile, saying, “Many,” before adding, “God bless you all.”
While Trump has yet to publicly address the pope’s remarks, his controversial Truth Social post continues to stir debate. Meanwhile, Vatican officials have remained tight-lipped, seemingly content to leave the media to speculate while moving forward with Pope Leo’s message of unity and open dialogue.
What are your thoughts on the pope’s subtle yet classy clapback? Share your opinion with us, and feel free to pass along the story so we can hear from others!