Homan Invites Pope Leo for ICE Ride Amid Immigration Debate

Tom Homan, who serves as President Donald Trump’s border czar, extended an invitation to Pope Leo during a recent Turning Point USA event. This came after the pope described the administration’s deportation efforts as “inhumane.”

Taking a different stance on the discord between Trump and the Pope, Homan remarked, “They’re discussing matters without full understanding, so it’s essential we sit down for a conversation.”

He further pointed out that leaving borders open could risk exposing vulnerable individuals to human trafficking.

“Once again, I will explain to them what happened with the Biden administration: Opening borders is the most inhumane thing to do,” Homan stated.

Homan criticized former President Joe Biden and former Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, asserting that the previous administration mismanaged border security from 2021 to 2025. He argued that taxpayer money was used to offer transportation, housing, and work permits to undocumented immigrants.

“When you make that promise to the world, the most desperate will risk their savings with cartels for a perilous journey,” he elaborated.

Homan is not alone in addressing the Pope’s remarks; several officials, including Trump, have voiced their disagreement regarding his criticisms of U.S. policies, especially concerning immigration and conflicts abroad.

Earlier this month, while speaking outside the White House, Homan suggested that the Pope should refrain from commenting on immigration issues.

“As a lifelong Catholic, I hope they stay away from immigration discussions. They lack the necessary understanding, having never stood in my shoes for 40 years or spoken to a child who suffered grave injustices,” Homan insisted.

“Every president I’ve served believed in the importance of border security. No president has accomplished more than President Trump. His achievements are unparalleled, leading to a safer nation,” he added.

In contrast, Pope Leo dismissed reports of a rift with Trump, claiming that the narrative had been exaggerated. The pope said that the dialogue seemed misinterpreted, noting, “It looked like I was trying to argue with the president, which is not my intention at all.”

Pope Leo affirmed that “every country has the right to determine who and how individuals may enter,” albeit he criticized the internal immigration policies as “extremely disrespectful.”

In reaction, Trump labeled the Pope as “weak on crime and poor in foreign policy.”

Vice President J.D. Vance also weighed in, suggesting that the Vatican might be better off focusing on issues related to death.