Pope Leo XIV Names New U.S. Bishops Amid Political Tensions

Pope Leo XIV has made new appointments for U.S. bishops, a move that some interpret as a response to prior tensions with the administration over anti-Trump sentiments.

The new bishops include those who have openly challenged increased immigration enforcement as well as attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion policies.

Washington Auxiliary Bishop Evelio Menjivar has previously expressed concern that immigration enforcement instills fear within immigrant communities. He stated, “Far beyond mere immigration ‘coercion,’ the federal government has pursued a ‘shock and awe’ campaign of aggressive threats and highly visible operations of questionable legality.”

Menjivar has been appointed as the new bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston in West Virginia.

Father Robert Boxey III is the newly appointed auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Washington, having previously promoted diversity initiatives. In an interview, Boxey commented, “In many ways we’ve made great progress, but in many ways I feel like we’re going backwards.” He emphasized frustration over ongoing attacks on DEI policies, remarking that “it’s a word that’s been hijacked. It means a lot of things to a lot of different people.”

Boxey further highlighted the importance of diversity, stating, “Fundamentally, that’s what America is. We’re a diverse country with people from all over the world. Diversity is good. Diversity is God-given.” He expressed concern that the negative framing around diversity is contrary to American values.

A third bishop referred to the January 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol as “sickening mayhem,” while others voiced skepticism about the appointments lacking a political dimension.