The anticipation surrounding Vice President JD Vance's trip to Rome adds layers to the ongoing dialogue between his administration and the Vatican, especially as Vance seeks to sidestep criticism regarding immigration policies. Notably, his aim for a brief audience with Pope Francis is now seen as a litmus test for the current relationship between these two powerful entities. With Pope Francis's recent health issues and contrasting positions on migration, many observers are eager to see if Vance's ambitions can be realized.
Vance's prior conversion to Catholicism at age 35, after years of fluctuating religious beliefs, informs his current political narrative as he builds alliances in Europe to bolster a common front on contentious issues like migration. As this complex story unfolds, the expected handshake with Meloni marks the vice president's intention to leverage alliances, indicating a larger roadmap that could shape the U.S.-EU relationship. A successful meeting with the Pope could offer not only moral validation for Vance but also mark a significant return for Pope Francis to public engagements at a pivotal moment in the Catholic Church.
Vance's prior conversion to Catholicism at age 35, after years of fluctuating religious beliefs, informs his current political narrative as he builds alliances in Europe to bolster a common front on contentious issues like migration. As this complex story unfolds, the expected handshake with Meloni marks the vice president's intention to leverage alliances, indicating a larger roadmap that could shape the U.S.-EU relationship. A successful meeting with the Pope could offer not only moral validation for Vance but also mark a significant return for Pope Francis to public engagements at a pivotal moment in the Catholic Church.
