Rome Showdown: JD Vance Sparks Vatican Drama with Trump Praise—Pope Francis Won’t Stay Silent!

**JD Vance Takes Center Stage During Easter Weekend in Rome** While many were enjoying their Easter eggs, **Vice President JD Vance** was shaking things up in Rome. Meeting with Italian PM **Giorgia Meloni** and attending **Good Friday mass at St. Peter’s Basilica**, he made sure to stir the pot a little. Because who doesn’t love a little international drama, especially with the Vatican? But here's the kicker: Vance is set to meet with **Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin** amid tensions with none other than **Pope Francis**. The Pope has been vocal against Trump's deportation policies, warning that actions founded on force are doomed to fail. Classic Pope, right? Vance, taking the high road, didn’t go directly against the Pope but rather defended Trump at the **National Catholic Prayer Breakfast**, claiming the former president has been a **great advocate for Catholics**. I guess being a **non-denominational Christian** doesn’t stop Trump from winning over the Catholic vote. He improved his Catholic numbers like a true comeback king—winning them by 10 points in 2024 compared to just a modest 1 point in 2020. Between Vance's diplomatic visit and the Pope's pointed criticisms, it looks like the Easter weekend wasn’t just about resurrection; it was about reigniting the Catholic political divide in America.

**Key Takeaways:** - Vice President **JD Vance** met with Italian PM **Giorgia Meloni** in Rome this Easter weekend.
- He’s set for a meeting with **Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin**, amid a clash with **Pope Francis**.
- The Pope criticized Trump's policies, calling them a blow to human dignity.
- Vance staunchly defended Trump’s presidency at the **National Catholic Prayer Breakfast**.
- Trump dramatically increased support among Catholics from 1 point in 2020 to 10 points in 2024.

**The Bigger Picture: What This Means for America** So, why should you care about Vance’s Easter Italian tour and the Pope’s comments? Because these interactions symbolize the ongoing **culture wars** that define our political landscape. With figures like Vance and Trump rising in favor among Catholics, it signals a shift that could affect future elections. Don’t forget that in today’s world, political allegiances often hinge on **religious affiliations**. As these leaders jockey for position and favor with spiritual leaders, everyday Americans are left wondering: what’s next? Are we headed for an era of more **Christian engagement** in conservative politics, or will it fizzle out like last year’s resolutions? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure—this is one political story worth following.
Back to blog

Leave a comment