Overview

• Cardinal Robert McElroy, known for his progressive stance, has been named the new archbishop of Washington, D.C., replacing the retiring Cardinal Wilton Gregory.
• McElroy has consistently criticized Donald Trump’s immigration policies, particularly plans for mass deportations, calling them incompatible with Catholic doctrine.
• The appointment aligns with Pope Francis’ vision of a more inclusive Church, as McElroy has been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion and addressing social justice issues beyond abortion.
• McElroy’s appointment comes as Trump prepares to begin his second term, signaling potential tensions between the Catholic Church and the incoming administration on issues like immigration and climate change.
• This decision follows Trump’s nomination of Brian Burch, a conservative critic of Pope Francis, as U.S. ambassador to the Vatican, highlighting ideological divides between the Vatican and the Trump administration.