Cardinal McElroy Criticizes Trump Immigration Policies Ahead of Washington Role

The incoming Archbishop of Washington calls for dignity and compassion for migrants, denouncing ICE raids on churches as a moral crisis.

Cardinal Robert McElroy, a close ally of Pope Francis, condemned the Trump administration's immigration policies, particularly ICE raids on houses of worship, as a 'wider cultural attack' on undocumented individuals.
McElroy emphasized the need for a balanced immigration policy that secures borders while upholding the dignity of migrants, opposing efforts to classify all undocumented people as criminals.
The cardinal will assume his new role as Archbishop of Washington, D.C., on March 11, replacing retiring Cardinal Wilton Gregory, and plans to focus on pastoral rather than political responsibilities.
The Archdiocese of Washington serves a diverse Catholic population, including a significant Hispanic community, many of whom face challenges related to immigration policies.
McElroy expressed concern for federal workers facing job losses and reaffirmed the church's role in offering moral guidance on societal issues in light of Catholic teachings.