Pope Leo XIV, the first American to be elected as the Catholic Church’s global leader, has stepped into a role with significant political implications. Hailing from Chicago, his social media history reflects critiques of Trump administration policies and statements made by Vice President JD Vance. Despite President Donald Trump expressing support for Leo’s election, a recent controversial act by Trump, where he posted an AI-generated image of himself dressed as a pope during a period of mourning for Pope Francis, raised concerns at the Vatican.

Leo’s online presence showcases a strong stance on Catholic news and church initiatives, particularly advocating against restrictions on migrants and refugees in the U.S. Notably, Leo has publicly criticized Vice President Vance for his views on immigration policies, emphasizing the importance of love and compassion in line with Catholic teachings.

Before assuming his new role as Pope, Leo, formerly known as Cardinal Robert Prevost, had a history of sharing critiques on social media dating back years. From highlighting issues with Trump’s anti-immigrant rhetoric to standing in solidarity with Dreamers and advocating for a fair immigration system, Leo’s social media activity reflects a deep commitment to social justice issues.

As Leo embarks on his new leadership journey within the Catholic Church, his previous online engagement suggests a dedication to advocating for compassion, justice, and inclusivity in the face of political challenges and societal injustices.