Speaking to the press outside the White House on Monday, former President Donald Trump offered glowing words about Pope Leo XIV’s brother, calling him a staunch supporter of the MAGA movement.

According to Irish Star, though Trump expressed admiration for both the pope and his brother, there is no indication that Pope Leo XIV endorses Trump or his political platform.

Trump made the comments when asked if he planned to meet with Pope Leo XIV, who made history as the first American to assume the papacy following his election on May 8. The pope is originally from Chicago and has become a uniquely prominent religious figure on the global stage.

Trump Praises Pope’s Florida-Based Sibling

While Trump said he had no current plans to meet the pope, he quickly pivoted to lauding the pope’s brother, who he said resides in Florida. Trump described the man as a strong supporter of his political movement and highlighted decorated displays of MAGA signs at his home.

“His brother is a major, serious Trumper,” Trump told reporters. “He’s MAGA all the way.” He added, “I like the pope’s brother. And I think I like the pope.”

The moment sparked laughter from Trump’s Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, who stood beside the former president during the exchange. The comments drew attention not only for their tone but also for the context in which they were delivered, amid speculation about future diplomatic engagements between Trump and Vatican leadership.

History of the First American Pope

Pope Leo XIV’s rise to the papacy earlier this year was viewed as a milestone, especially among American Catholics. As a native of Chicago, he carries a unique perspective to the Vatican, blending American cultural insights with centuries of Catholic tradition.

Despite Trump’s warm remarks directed toward the pope’s sibling, there has been no confirmation of any personal connection between the pope himself and Trump or his political agenda. Trump did, however, publicly congratulate the pope in May via social media, calling his election “a Great Honor for our Country” and expressing interest in a future meeting.

So far, the Vatican has not responded to Trump’s most recent remarks. The pope has not indicated any political alignment with Trump nor has he made any public statements referencing the former president directly since taking office.

Contrasting Views on Immigration

Prior to becoming pope, Leo XIV was known for pushing back against views he saw as conflicting with Catholic teaching. One such instance occurred in response to statements made by JD Vance, who had characterized love in a way some interpreted as exclusionary toward immigrants.

The future pope rejected those ideas, stating, “JD Vance is wrong: Jesus doesn’t ask us to rank our love for others.” The comment was seen as a clear denunciation of any framework that limits compassion based on nationality or other identity markers.

Earlier, during the 2015 Republican primaries, then-Cardinal Leo publicly reposted an article by Cardinal Timothy Dolan that critiqued Trump on immigration. The post indicated dissatisfaction with the tone and substance of Trump’s rhetoric on the issue at the time.

Voting History and Political Ambiguity

CBS News reported that Pope Leo XIV has participated in at least nine U.S. general elections, including the one held in 2024. However, no verified details are available about whom he supported in any of those contests.

This voting history underlines the pope’s long-term involvement in civic life prior to his elevation to the papacy, though it does not clarify his stance on specific political candidates or parties. Observers continue to note that his policy positions tend to emphasize universal love and compassion rather than partisan ideology.

Amid ongoing speculation, Pope Leo XIV has not responded to any of Trump’s assertions regarding his brother or his own allegiances. Vatican officials have generally refrained from engaging with U.S. political narratives unless doctrinally relevant.

Trump’s Comments Draw Social Media Buzz

The timing and tone of Trump’s comments sparked debate on social media, where users noted his distinctive appearance and speculated about his health. These observations, while unsubstantiated, added to the already active online discussion surrounding his return to the limelight.

Just one day before the pope-related comments, Trump had engaged in talks with NATO Secretary Mark Rutte, an event which received comparatively less public attention. It remains unclear whether Trump’s mention of the pontiff was strategically timed or spontaneous.

As the 2024 political landscape continues to shift, remarks like these highlight the complex interplay between religious figures and American politicians. While Trump allies himself with individuals supportive of his movement, religious leaders such as Pope Leo XIV continue to assert values that resist partisan labels.