Jesse Watters: Pope’s Political Ideology Received’t Have an effect on America – ‘Pope Does His Factor, America Does Ours’

New York, Might 25, 2025 – Fox Information host Jesse Watters weighed in on the election of Pope Leo XIV, the primary American-born pope, dismissing considerations in regards to the pontiff’s political leanings impacting U.S. politics. In a phase on The 5, Watters argued that the Vatican’s affect is distinct from America’s priorities, stating, “The Pope does his factor, America does ours.”

Watters’ Tackle Pope Leo XIV

Watters’ feedback come amid controversy over Pope Leo XIV, previously Cardinal Robert Prevost, whose social media exercise has sparked criticism from some within the “America First” motion. Prevost, a Chicago native, has posted content material essential of former President Donald Trump’s immigration insurance policies and Vice President JD Vance’s stance on prioritizing nationwide pursuits. Regardless of this, Watters downplayed the importance of the Pope’s views, emphasizing America’s independence from Vatican affect.

“Look, the Pope’s bought his opinions, however we’re working a rustic right here, not a cathedral,” Watters stated on his present. “He can tweet about open borders or no matter, however that’s not shifting the needle in Washington. People care about jobs, safety, and freedom. The Pope does his factor, America does ours.”

Context of the Controversy

Pope Leo XIV’s election on Might 8, 2025, marked a historic second for the Catholic Church, with the 69-year-old Prevost turning into the chief of 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide. His previous social media posts, together with a February 2025 critique of JD Vance’s immigration stance and help for Pope Francis’ inclusive insurance policies, have drawn ire from conservative commentators like Steve Bannon and Laura Loomer, who labeled him “anti-Trump” and “pro-open borders.”

Watters, whereas acknowledging the Pope’s progressive leanings, steered that the U.S. political panorama is simply too polarized for the Pope’s views to carry sway. “The Church can discuss mercy and bridges all it needs, however we’ve bought a border disaster, inflation, and a tradition warfare to take care of,” he remarked. “Good luck getting MAGA to line up behind a man who appears like he’s studying from the DNC playbook.”

Broader Conservative Response

Watters’ stance echoes sentiments from different conservative figures. Former White Home strategist Steve Bannon known as Leo XIV the “worst choose ever,” citing his criticism of Trump’s insurance policies. Vice President Vance, a Catholic convert, took a extra diplomatic method, stating, “I’m certain he’ll say some issues I really like, some I disagree with, however I’ll pray for him.” In the meantime, President Trump congratulated the Pope, calling his election “a Nice Honor” for the U.S., although some speculate he might conflict with Leo XIV over coverage variations.

Political Influence Unlikely, Says Watters

Watters argued that the Pope’s affect on American politics is overstated, pointing to the declining spiritual affiliation within the U.S. Solely about 20% of People determine as Catholic, based on Pew Analysis, and even fewer align strictly with Vatican teachings. “The Pope’s not setting coverage in D.C.,” Watters stated. “He’s an ethical voice, certain, however People make up their very own minds. We’re not bowing to Rome.”

This aligns with knowledgeable opinions suggesting the Pope’s ethical authority, whereas vital for Catholics, has restricted direct political energy in shaping U.S. voters’ opinions. Watters emphasised that home points just like the economic system and immigration will overshadow any Vatican pronouncements, particularly beneath a Trump administration targeted on “America First” priorities.

Trying Forward

As Pope Leo XIV settles into his position, his method to points like immigration, gun management, and social justice will doubtless proceed to stir debate amongst U.S. conservatives. Watters, nevertheless, remained unfazed, joking, “If the Pope needs to weigh in on our politics, he can strive, however he’s bought 1.4 billion different Catholics to fret about. Let’s see him repair the priest scarcity first.”

Disclaimer: This text is for informational functions solely and doesn’t represent political or spiritual recommendation. Readers ought to confirm info independently.

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