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Axelrod: Pope Meeting Could Shift Catholic Voter Sentiment

4/16/2026

23 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

David Axelrod, a former Obama adviser, said the April 9 meeting with Pope Leo XIV was personal.
The meeting spurred talk of an Obama-Pope summit amid tensions between Pope Leo XIV and President Donald Trump over Iran's military actions.
Conservative Hal Lambert said the meeting could sway Catholic voters against Trump in the midterms.
Experts say the Pope is unlikely to run for president because church laws bar clergy.

History

Historical Context

Pope Benedict XVI's visit to the United States from April 15-20, 2008, marked a significant moment in Catholic engagement with American politics, addressing immigration and social justice. This visit, his only to the U.S., followed a history of papal interactions with U.S. leaders, including President George W. Bush, and reflects ongoing tensions between the Vatican and U.S. leadership that could influence future elections.

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Story summary

David Axelrod, a former Obama adviser, said the April 9 meeting with Pope Leo XIV was personal.
The meeting spurred talk of an Obama-Pope summit amid tensions between Pope Leo XIV and President Donald Trump over Iran's military actions.
Conservative Hal Lambert said the meeting could sway Catholic voters against Trump in the midterms.
Experts say the Pope is unlikely to run for president because church laws bar clergy.

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