Story perspectives

Colbert Challenges Vance's Pope Comments Amid Tensions

4/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Stephen Colbert, a lifelong Catholic, criticized Vice President JD Vance for advising Pope Leo XIV to refrain from theology commentary.
Vance defended President Trump's attacks on the pope over the Iran war at a Turning Point USA event.
Colbert urged Vance to be cautious, noting tension between Trump and the pope, who called the conflict "unjust".
The feud complicates Vance's standing among Catholic voters, as many support the pope's stance.

History

Historical Context

The Second Vatican Council, convened by Pope John XXIII from 1962 to 1965, aimed to modernize the Catholic Church's engagement with contemporary society. It produced 16 documents, including significant reforms on liturgy and ecumenism, promoting dialogue with other faiths. This legacy continues to influence political interactions, as seen in Vice President JD Vance's challenges in appealing to Catholic voters who largely support the pope's social justice views.

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Story summary

Stephen Colbert, a lifelong Catholic, criticized Vice President JD Vance for advising Pope Leo XIV to refrain from theology commentary.
Vance defended President Trump's attacks on the pope over the Iran war at a Turning Point USA event.
Colbert urged Vance to be cautious, noting tension between Trump and the pope, who called the conflict "unjust".
The feud complicates Vance's standing among Catholic voters, as many support the pope's stance.

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