A senior Vatican insider has dismissed Trump’s belief that he can sway pope Leo XIV, calling the former president “deluded” for thinking so.
A vatican insider warns Trump cannot influence pope Leo XIV
Donald Trump is “deluded” if he thinks he can influence Pope Leo XIV , a Vatican insider has revealed.
While Trump may celebrate the election of an American pope, the insider emphasizes that the new pontiff will not align with his views.
The source told MailOnline: “The US President ‘may well be celebrating that an American is at the Vatican, but he’s deluded if he thinks he will have Pope Leon’s support or be able to influence him”.
Pope Leo XIV’s lifestyle mirrors pope Francis’s simplicity
Pope Leo XIV has chosen a modest lifestyle, following Pope Francis’ example by forgoing the papal palace.
The newly elected pontiff will reside in the Casa Santa Marta guesthouse, where cardinals stay during the conclave.
He has chosen this over the opulent Apostolic Palace.
‘The new Pope is very much like the old one, it’s a continuity of Francis which is what the Church wanted and Leon like Francis is a voice for migrants and the poor.
The Casa Santa Marta is located next to St. Peter’s Basilica and was originally built to accommodate cardinals during the conclave.
It is here that Pope Francis passed away on Easter Monday, emphasizing his commitment to humility.
This decision reflects Pope Leo XIV’s alignment with Pope Francis’ values of simplicity and frugality, which Trump may find difficult to influence.
Pope Leo XIV favors Peru ties over American identity
Though born in Chicago, Pope Leo XIV is known for his strong connection to Peru, where he spent much of his career.
‘On paper he may have been born in the USA, but he also has Peruvian nationality which he holds very dearly to his heart,’ the insider said.
‘Did you notice how he spoke in Latin, Italian and Spanish but not in English, that’s a real marker.
‘He mentioned Peru and Rome in his opening remarks as Pope from the balcony, but he didn’t say Chicago where he was born or mention the United States.
Additionally, the new pope’s inaugural address did not mention his birthplace, Chicago, or the United States.
Instead, he highlighted his Peruvian and Roman roots, marking a shift from traditional American popes.
Pope Leo XIV’s political views clash with Trump’s ideologies
Pope Leo XIV’s stance on various issues has already stirred controversy.
As a cardinal, he opposed many of Trump’s policies, including immigration, gun control, and racial justice.
‘He and Trump are going in very different directions and yes it is a shock for an American to be named Pope but how the relationship between them will play out is going to be interesting.’ Insider revealed.
A few weeks before his election, he shared articles criticizing JD Vance and other Trump allies on social media.
Before his election, Pope Leo criticized key Trump allies, including Vice President JD Vance.
On X (formerly Twitter), he shared articles challenging Vance’s anti-immigration stance.
He also supported messages about inclusive Christian values.
He has previously spoken out on topics such as gun control, racial justice, and the death of George Floyd. His views have earned praise from liberal Catholics and criticism from MAGA supporters.
Steve Bannon labeled him the “anti-Trump Pope,” while some far-right voices resorted to insults.
Despite the backlash, Pope Leo remains steadfast.
His priorities center on service, compassion, and global unity—far removed from nationalist politics.
Interestingly, some reports suggest Prevost once voted in Illinois Republican primaries.
However, his current stance shows a clear departure from hardline U.S. political ideologies.