Senator Kennedy criticizes Trump's feud with Pope Leo XIV

Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana, a long-time supporter of Donald Trump, publicly criticized the president's ongoing feud with Pope Leo XIV, labeling it a "distraction" during a Fox News interview this week. Kennedy stated, "I love the president like a taco... I don’t agree with him about this new holy war with the pope." He emphasized his respect for Catholicism and questioned the necessity of a conflict with the pope, saying, "Why do we want to have a fight with the pope?"

This criticism from Kennedy comes amid a heated exchange between Trump and Pope Leo regarding the U.S.-Israel war against Iran. Recently, Trump threatened that a "whole civilization will die" if Iran does not end its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, to which the pope responded by calling Trump's remarks "truly unacceptable" and urged for peace. In a Truth Social post, Trump labeled the pope as "WEAK on Crime, and terrible for Foreign Policy," while the pope has condemned nuclear weapons and their impact on humanity.

Kennedy's remarks could signal a shift in support within the Republican Party, as he distances himself from Trump's aggressive rhetoric towards religious figures. This could embolden other party members to voice dissent against Trump's approach, especially as the GOP navigates its relationship with religious voters. Additionally, Kennedy's comments may expose Trump to further scrutiny from within his own base, particularly among those who prioritize religious respect and diplomacy.

What to watch: The potential for further Republican dissent against Trump’s foreign policy strategies, especially regarding relations with religious leaders.