US bishops push back as Trump attacks Pope Leo XIV
American bishops defended Pope Leo XIV against President Trump’s criticisms, stressing that the pope is a spiritual leader and not Trump’s rival. Trump disparaged Leo XIV on Truth Social and posted a controversial image, drawing backlash even from some supporters. Leo XIV said he’s unfazed and won’t engage in a debate, while Bishop Barron and others called the remarks inappropriate and urged an apology, amid broader Vatican–White House tensions over policy toward Iran.


