Pope Francis Slams Trump’s Immigration Plan: ‘A Disgrace’

In a strikingly candid remark, Pope Francis on Sunday condemned President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed immigration raids, calling them a “disgrace” and warning that they would unfairly target vulnerable migrants.

The pontiff’s comments, made during an interview on Italy’s Channel 9, are unusually direct for the leader of the Catholic Church, who typically avoids deep political commentary.

The pope criticized the reported plans to ramp up immigration enforcement in the United States, which he believes would place an unjust burden on migrants.

“It would make the migrants, who have nothing, pay the unpaid bill,” Francis said.

“It doesn’t work. You don’t resolve problems this way.” His remarks reflect his long-standing advocacy for migrant rights, which has been a defining theme throughout his papacy.

This criticism comes as Trump’s administration has been reportedly reconsidering a series of planned raids aimed at rounding up undocumented immigrants in cities like Chicago, following backlash from various religious leaders and advocacy groups.

Cardinal Blase Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago, also voiced strong disapproval of the raids, labeling them an “affront to the dignity of all people and communities.”

Pope Francis has previously spoken out against anti-immigrant rhetoric, particularly from political leaders, including Trump.

In 2016, he famously remarked that Trump was “not Christian” for his stance on immigration, a comment that stirred heated debate.

However, the pope has maintained that his criticism is rooted in a moral concern for those most at risk in society.

Despite his usual cautious approach to political matters, Francis has made it clear that the treatment of migrants is central to his vision for a just and compassionate world.

He has consistently called for policies that protect the dignity of all people, especially the most vulnerable, including those fleeing violence, poverty, and persecution.

The conversation about immigration continues to be a polarizing issue in the United States, and Pope Francis’ remarks have only added fuel to the debate.