Homan Invites Pope to Discuss Immigration with ICE Agents

Tom Homan, the border czar under President Trump, has proposed that the head of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo, join him on a tour with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in various cities. During a panel discussion hosted by Turning Point USA, Homan, who identifies as a “lifelong Catholic,” expressed his eagerness to engage with the Pope.

This invitation comes as tensions simmer between the Pope and the Trump administration, particularly over immigration policies and conflicts involving Iran. The Pope has emphasized that every nation should have the authority to regulate who enters and how. He criticized the administration’s stringent immigration measures, deeming them “extremely disrespectful.” In response, Trump labeled the Pope as “weak on crime and terrible on foreign policy.” Vice President J.D. Vance, also a Catholic, opined that perhaps the Vatican should concentrate solely on moral matters.

In contrast, Homan, who supervises border security operations under Trump, was quite straightforward when asked during the panel whether he would invite the Pope to ride along with ICE: “Yes,” he stated.

“I’ll sit down and talk to him,” he added. “Because they’re talking about things they don’t understand.”

Homan noted the increase in illegal immigration under President Biden’s administration, calling it inhumane to keep borders open. He accused Biden and former Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas of mismanaging border control from 2021 to 2025, claiming their policies essentially used taxpayer money to aid illegal immigrants in finding housing and employment.

According to Homan, making the United States appear welcoming could push vulnerable individuals into dangerous situations, further enriching cartels.

“The most humane thing you can do is protect your borders,” he asserted.

He argued that during Trump’s presidency, illegal immigration dropped by about 96.7%. This decline, he pointed out, has likely spared numerous women and children from violence, and has reduced the flow of dangerous substances, like fentanyl, into the country.

Homan also criticized the disconnect that exists with those who don’t understand the harsh realities of illegal immigration. He shared troubling anecdotes, emphasizing the gravity of the situation and advocating for improved conversations with those involved in policymaking.

As this dialogue continues, it remains unclear how the Vatican will respond to Homan’s invitation for discussion. The Pope, for his part, has indicated he feels more exaggerated commentary surrounds the tension with the Trump administration than necessary, preferring to focus on moral issues rather than engage in political disputes.