On May 11, ABC’s This Week aired live from the Vatican, where host Martha Raddatz and senior national correspondent Terry Moran discussed Pope Leo’s first Sunday blessing and his historic election—the first time an American has been chosen to lead the Catholic Church.
Addressing speculation about U.S. influence in the decision, Moran stated, “The question was, how much did the American moment with President Trump matter? They’re telling us: not at all. It was [Cardinal Robert] Prevost that mattered.”
Raddatz agreed, emphasizing that the Chicago-born cardinal was the central figure in the decision.
The idea that Trump had no influence reportedly did not sit well at the White House. Shortly after the broadcast, Trump posted a characteristically fiery message on Truth Social, lashing out at ABC and suggesting he had a hand in the pope’s selection.
“It’s funny to watch old timer Martha Raditz on ABC Fake News (the Slopadopolus show!) claim Pope Leo’s selection had nothing to do with Donald Trump,” he wrote. “Remember, I did WIN the Catholic Vote, by a lot! Bob Iger should do something about the losers and haters on his low-rated shows. It’s time for change. MAGA!!!”
Public Reaction
Trump’s post sparked swift backlash online.
“How is this acceptable from the POTUS?! Deplorable,” one user posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Another added, “Is Trump seriously claiming credit for the Pope’s election? Embarrassing.”
A third commented, “Trump’s narcissism knows no bounds. He’s trying to take credit for something Americans have no part in.”
— Commentary Donald J. Trump Posts From Truth Social (@TrumpDailyPosts) May 12, 2025
Pope Leo’s Message of Peace
The following day, on May 12, Pope Leo addressed more than 1,000 journalists in Vatican City. Without naming Trump or the U.S., he called for respectful, open communication and denounced hostile rhetoric in the media.
“The way we communicate is of fundamental importance,” Pope Leo said in Italian, according to Reuters. “We must say ‘no’ to the war of words and images… let us disarm communication of all prejudice and resentment, fanaticism and even hatred.”
He continued: “We do not need loud, forceful communication but rather communication that is capable of listening.”
He also urged the international community to protect free speech and press freedom, highlighting the plight of journalists currently imprisoned around the world.
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Reporter: "Holy Father, any message to the United States?"
Pope Leo: "Many." pic.twitter.com/9sSjBHxwuG
— Chris D. Jackson (@ChrisDJackson) May 12, 2025
A Veiled Response?
Though the pontiff never directly addressed Trump, many online felt the timing and content of his speech were a clear, if polite, rebuke of the former president’s inflammatory remarks.
“New pope delivers speech that sure seems like shade at Trump,” one user tweeted.
Another wrote, “Pope takes swipe at those who attack journalists – as Trump rages about ‘fake news.’”
A third added, “While Trump rants about the press, Pope Leo defends freedom of speech with grace.”
As Pope Leo exited the event, NewsNation’s Robert Sherman asked if he had any message for the United States. With a smile, he responded, “Many. God bless you all.”
While Trump has yet to respond directly to the Pope’s comments, his earlier Truth Social post continues to draw scrutiny. Meanwhile, Vatican officials appear focused on moving forward with Pope Leo’s vision—one centered on dialogue, dignity, and inclusion.
