Context:

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, before becoming the first American pope, was linked to a social media account that criticized the Trump administration's immigration policies, aligning with Pope Francis's views. This account, though not directly confirmed to be run by Prevost, shared articles and statements by church leaders opposing policies like the repeal of DACA and the separation of migrant children from their parents, calling them un-Christian and morally indefensible. The account also engaged in other political issues, such as condemning the killing of George Floyd and opposing gun control resistance, while supporting pro-life positions against Hillary Clinton's abortion stance. Despite the criticisms, former President Trump has expressed no resentment towards the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, instead expressing a willingness to meet him. However, Steve Bannon, a Trump ally, criticized Prevost as being too progressive for the papacy, indicating a divide in opinions within Trump's circle regarding the new pope's direction.

Dive Deeper:

• Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost's social media account, before his papacy, shared numerous critiques of Trump administration's immigration policies, reflecting views similar to Pope Francis's, particularly labeling such policies as against Christian doctrine.

• The account, linked to Prevost, reposted and shared articles from various church leaders condemning harsh immigration policies, including the repeal of DACA and the separation of migrant children, describing them as heartless and fueling racism.

• Beyond immigration, the account addressed other political matters, such as the outrage over George Floyd's death and the refusal to pass gun control legislation post the Las Vegas shooting, indicating a broader engagement with American political issues.

• The account's opposition to abortion rights was evident, sharing articles criticizing Hillary Clinton's stance, aligning with pro-life advocates and showcasing the cardinal's conservative religious views on this particular issue.

• While the account frequently engaged in American politics, many posts were in Spanish, addressing Catholic doctrine and church announcements, reflecting Cardinal Prevost's global religious perspective.

• Despite the past criticisms, President Trump has shown no ill will towards Pope Leo XIV, expressing a desire to meet, while his ally Steve Bannon criticized Prevost's progressive stance, highlighting ideological divides within Trump's supporters.

• The account's history spans back to 2011, initially focusing on church-related updates and later expanding to political commentary, thus illustrating a long-term engagement with both religious and political discourse.