Pope Francis has drawn criticism from MAGA Republicans for calling it “madness” to close the U.S. border to migrants. During an interview with CBS Evening News anchor Norah O’Donnell on 60 Minutes, Francis expressed his belief that migration contributes to a country’s growth and criticized efforts by Texas to shut down a Catholic charity providing aid to undocumented migrants. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s office has targeted the charity with lawsuits, accusing them of various violations related to aiding illegal entry into the U.S.
Despite President Joe Biden’s support for a bipartisan border bill aimed at reducing illegal crossings, the legislation failed due to opposition from Donald Trump. Biden has expressed interest in exploring the possibility of shutting down the border without congressional authorization. However, Pope Francis believes that the U.S. should welcome migrants and handle each case with humanity, even if that means considering sending them back. His comments have sparked outrage among supporters of Trump, who has vowed to initiate a massive deportation operation if re-elected in November.
Critics of Pope Francis, such as conservative commentator Rogan O’Handley and far-right activist Jack Posobiec, have accused him of hypocrisy for advocating for open borders while residing behind heavily guarded walls in Vatican City. Some have argued that the Pope should open up the Vatican to illegal aliens if he truly believes in the importance of welcoming migrants. Others, like conservative comedian Tim Young, have pointed out the disparity between the Pope’s statements on border security and the security measures in place around his own residence.
One Trump supporter questioned the Pope’s denouncement of closing the American border, highlighting the existence of walls around Vatican City. They accused Francis of encouraging infiltration into America while benefiting from protection and security measures. Another individual called on the Pope to tear down the walls surrounding the Vatican as a symbolic gesture of openness and acceptance. The debate surrounding Pope Francis’s remarks highlights the contentious issue of border security, migration, and the responsibilities of nations to address these pressing challenges in a humane and ethical manner.
