Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

American Pope Sparks Renewed Fears Over Authority and Freedom

5/10/2025

26 2

Summary

Story summary

At the 1788 North Carolina ratifying convention, delegate James Iredell scoffed at fears of a pope becoming president, assuring that the Constitution safeguarded against such scenarios. Fast forward to today, with an American pope in the spotlight, those old anxieties reignite, revealing the ongoing struggle between authority and the essence of freedom in our democracy.

1 of 1

Story summary

At the 1788 North Carolina ratifying convention, delegate James Iredell scoffed at fears of a pope becoming president, assuring that the Constitution safeguarded against such scenarios. Fast forward to today, with an American pope in the spotlight, those old anxieties reignite, revealing the ongoing struggle between authority and the essence of freedom in our democracy.