When Pope Leo is a principle force standing against the evisceration of US democracy

[pat_k]

1. This goes so far beyond political or religious affiliation.

Chicago-born Leo, increasingly outspoken in opposing Trump’s “inhuman” policies since his election in May, now stands at the head of this clerical revolt.

Earlier this month, he demanded ICE rethink its demonization of migrants – more than 2 million “illegal aliens” have been involuntarily removed this year and record numbers detained, official figures indicate.

He criticised lethal US strikes on suspected drug smugglers off Venezuela, warning violence would fail.

And he has challenged Trump’s climate-crisis denial, telling Cop30 that God’s creation is “crying out” for action.

Organized opposition to Trump among Catholic and other faith groups on the “Christian left” is spreading at grassroots level.

From New Jersey to California, parish priests and pastors have led local protests, boycotts and initiatives to counter ICE’s depredations. “Catholics are particularly well positioned to lead such a movement,” wrote Maria J Stephan, a specialist in non-violent civil resistance.