Tensions between former U.S. President Donald Trump and Pope Leo XIV have escalated into a high-profile dispute that is now reverberating across American politics, conservative media, and the Republican Party, drawing criticism from Catholic voters and political leaders ahead of key elections.

The controversy began after Trump launched a series of attacks on the pope, describing him as “weak on crime” and “terrible for foreign policy,” particularly over Leo’s criticism of the war involving Iran. The pope, a Chicago native, has consistently spoken against the conflict, insisting on a moral obligation to oppose war and advocate for peace.

The dispute has triggered sharp divisions within conservative circles. Prominent media figures, including Sean Hannity, accused the pope of promoting “left-wing politics,” while Tucker Carlson pushed back, defending Leo’s position as conventional and criticising the tone of attacks against him.

Trump has also lashed out at Carlson and other dissenting voices, suggesting he might rank conservative commentators based on their loyalty, further deepening internal fractures.

Political fallout has been swift. Several Republican figures, particularly those facing competitive elections, distanced themselves from Trump’s remarks. Senator Susan Collins described the comments as offensive to millions of Catholics, while Representative Brian Fitzpatrick rejected Trump’s suggestion that the pope owed his position to political influence, calling it “absurd.”

Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie warned that Trump’s rhetoric could damage his standing among Catholic voters, noting that many Catholics retain loyalty to the papacy regardless of political disagreements.

Despite the backlash, key Republican leaders, including Mike Johnson and Vice President JD Vance, have publicly supported Trump, reinforcing party divisions.

The dispute also comes at a politically sensitive time, as Republicans prepare for midterm elections while facing criticism over rising fuel costs linked to the ongoing conflict. Analysts warn that alienating Catholic voters, a significant electoral bloc, could complicate the party’s strategy.

Among the public, reactions have been mixed but often critical of Trump’s approach. Some Catholics described his comments as disrespectful, while others expressed concern over broader issues of leadership and tone. The controversy intensified further after Trump shared an AI-generated image portraying himself in a religious context, which many viewed as inappropriate.

Pope Leo, however, has remained defiant, stating he has “no fear” of the Trump administration and will continue speaking out on moral issues, particularly the war.

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