The Trump team didn’t hold back.
Tom Homan, currently serving as President Trump’s “border czar,” responded sharply to Pope Francis after the pontiff criticized the administration’s immigration enforcement strategy. Homan, who oversees the administration’s aggressive mass deportation efforts, made it clear he disagreed with the Pope’s stance on U.S. immigration policy, offering pointed criticism of the Vatican’s approach.
“I’ve got harsh words for the Pope,” Homan said during a White House briefing. “The Pope ought to focus on fixing the Catholic Church and leave border enforcement to us.” As a lifelong Catholic, Homan pointed out that he had been baptized, received his First Communion, and was confirmed within the Catholic faith. However, he felt the Pope was overstepping by offering criticism on border security.
He also took aim at the Pope’s position, drawing attention to the fact that the Vatican itself is surrounded by a wall. “The Pope has a wall around the Vatican, doesn’t he? He wants to attack us for securing our borders, but he’s got a wall around his own residence to protect his people. It’s a bit hypocritical,” Homan remarked. “He should focus on fixing the issues within the Catholic Church and leave the business of protecting our borders to those who are responsible for it.”
Homan’s remarks were a direct response to a letter from Pope Francis, which criticized the Trump administration’s approach to immigration, particularly the mass deportation of individuals. In his letter, the Pope acknowledged a nation’s right to secure its borders but expressed concern that deporting people who fled poverty and violence undermines their dignity. He called for a more humane approach to migration while still maintaining control over immigration policies.
The Trump administration’s focus on mass deportations remains a cornerstone of its immigration strategy. Since taking office, President Trump has maintained a strong stance on enforcing immigration laws, including deporting thousands of individuals, many of whom have been living in the U.S. illegally. As Homan emphasized, securing the U.S. border is a priority that cannot be compromised, and while the Pope is entitled to his views, it is the responsibility of U.S. leaders to ensure the nation’s security and sovereignty.