Pope Francis Appoints Progressive Cardinal McElroy as Washington Archbishop

Cardinal Robert McElroy, a vocal advocate for migrants and LGBTQ+ inclusion, takes over from Cardinal Wilton Gregory in a politically significant move ahead of Trump’s second term.

Cardinal Robert McElroy, known for his progressive stance, has been named the new archbishop of Washington, D.C., replacing the retiring Cardinal Wilton Gregory.
McElroy has consistently criticized Donald Trump’s immigration policies, particularly plans for mass deportations, calling them incompatible with Catholic doctrine.
The appointment aligns with Pope Francis’ vision of a more inclusive Church, as McElroy has been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion and addressing social justice issues beyond abortion.
McElroy’s appointment comes as Trump prepares to begin his second term, signaling potential tensions between the Catholic Church and the incoming administration on issues like immigration and climate change.
This decision follows Trump’s nomination of Brian Burch, a conservative critic of Pope Francis, as U.S. ambassador to the Vatican, highlighting ideological divides between the Vatican and the Trump administration.