The notion of unity within the Catholic community was short-lived. Just days after Vice President JD Vance shared a stage with a prominent Catholic cardinal during his inauguration, he engaged in a public dispute with the leading figures of the American Catholic Church.
As a recent convert to Catholicism, Vance accused the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops of assisting in the resettlement of “illegal immigrants” solely to obtain federal funds. Cardinal Timothy Dolan from New York, who had delivered the invocation prior to Vance taking his oath, responded sharply to these accusations, labeling them as “scurrilous” and “nasty.”
Vance has defended his stance by referencing a medieval Catholic theological concept known as “ordo amoris,” which he believes justifies the immigration policies of the Trump administration. He suggested that this principle defines a hierarchy of care, prioritizing family, followed by neighbors, local communities, fellow citizens, and lastly, individuals far from home.
However, several experts argue that Vance is oversimplifying the doctrine, emphasizing that Catholic teachings promote aiding those in dire circumstances, even if they are strangers. Despite this, Vance finds backing from many within the postliberal Catholic movement, which embraces a mix of social conservatism and using governmental power to elevate Christian values and foster community. Thought leaders within this movement have endorsed the sweeping changes undertaken by the Trump administration, applauding significant cuts to federal agencies seen as opposing their objectives.
The current tension among Catholic leaders arises as some bishops have expressed support for recent actions taken by the Trump administration. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops welcomed executive orders that advocate for “school choice,” reduce federal assistance for gender transition services, and require foreign entities receiving U.S. aid to affirm their stance against abortion.
There appears to be a significant shift in Catholic influence in Washington following the change in leadership. Joe Biden and Nancy Pelosi, both liberal Catholics advocating for abortion rights, have stepped down from their respective positions, creating room for a more conservative Catholic presence. Trump has appointed Brian Burch, a prominent conservative Catholic activist and president of CatholicVote, to serve as ambassador to the Vatican, while Pope Francis has assigned the relatively progressive Cardinal Robert McElroy as the new archbishop of Washington.
Vance’s criticisms have notably struck a nerve. He expressed disappointment that the bishops had not collaborated effectively on immigration enforcement, alleging they had received $100 million for resettling illegal immigrants. Cardinal Dolan, during his SiriusXM broadcast, refuted Vance’s claims, asserting they were both incorrect and damaging. He clarified that the bishops’ conference, which is among ten U.S. organizations tasked with refugee resettlement, operates under funding constraints where government grants do not cover total costs and are often complemented by private donations.
Regarding his defense of “ordo amoris,” Vance reiterated his beliefs on a Fox News segment, saying that love should start with one’s family and community before extending to others. He accused the “far left” of reversing this order.
In a subsequent social media exchange, he prompted followers to research “ordo amoris” or its translation, “order of love.” This theological framework, articulated by St. Augustine, posits that while everyone should be equally loved, individuals are obligated to care for those with whom they share a closer bond. St. Thomas Aquinas echoed this in the 13th century, arguing that while familial loyalties are significant, acts of charity towards those in utmost need—such as strangers—might take precedence based on specific circumstances.
David Hollenbach, a Jesuit theologian from Georgetown University, criticized Vance’s interpretation, maintaining that while individuals are adept at caring for those nearby, substantial need from distant individuals should not be overlooked. He referenced the parable of the Good Samaritan as a model for responding to urgent humanitarian needs, asserting that we should help refugees in peril.
The ongoing discussions surrounding immigration, gender identity, and other societal issues illustrate a broader divide among Catholic leaders. Conservative figures have rallied behind Vance, viewing the Trump administration’s policies as a realization of their ideals. Harvard law professor Adrian Vermeule noted the shift in how political dialogue now integrates theological principles.
In contrast, issues like LGBTQ+ inclusion within the Catholic Church reveal sharp divisions. While Archbishop for the Military Services Timothy Broglio welcomed the Trump administration’s executive orders defining gender strictly as male or female, Cardinal McElroy has pushed for more radical inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Meanwhile, Vance continues to reference historical Catholic figures, framing his advocacy for religious freedom around theological roots rather than modern political interpretations. In his speech at the International Religious Freedom Summit, he underscored that the concept of religious liberty emanates from core Christian beliefs, such as the dignity of all people and the free will inherent to humanity.
