Cardinal Robert McElroy, Archbishop of Washington, DC, and a close ally of Pope Leo XIV, has openly condemned the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown, calling the mass deportations “inhumane” and “morally wrong.” Speaking from Rome, McElroy highlighted the widespread fear created among millions of undocumented immigrants, many of whom have contributed positively to American society.
While acknowledging the government’s right to deport individuals with serious criminal records, McElroy criticized the broad enforcement tactics that separate families and even target immigrants in sensitive places like churches. He suggested that these policies are rooted in a long history of discrimination against immigrant groups perceived as “different.”
The cardinal also addressed criticisms that the church’s opposition to these policies is financially motivated, explaining that government funding is insufficient to cover the church’s extensive support efforts for migrants.
McElroy emphasized Pope Leo XIV’s consistent call for respect toward migrants, reflecting the pope’s own immigrant heritage. He also criticized a recent major tax and spending bill supported by Trump, arguing it unfairly benefits the wealthy at the expense of the poor.
In response, White House representatives defended the president, affirming that Trump is fulfilling his campaign promises and that the legislation will boost the economy to benefit all Americans.
