Concerns from “The View” Co-Host Over New Pope’s Stance

Sunny Hostin, a co-host of “The View,” recently expressed her concerns regarding the LGBTQ+ community in light of the newly elected Pope, Cardinal Robert Prebble, who has taken the name Pope Leo XIV. Many regard him as a bridging figure between traditional and progressive elements of the Roman Catholic Church. Reactions to his election vary, with some commentators feeling optimistic, while others remain skeptical about his views aligning with their own.

“As a devout Catholic, I find this both exciting and worrying,” Hostin remarked, referencing the traditional rituals associated with the Conclave. “In these turbulent times, spiritual leadership is vital. However, I do have concerns for the LGBTQ+ community with this new choice.”

She brought up a particular statement made by Pope Leo XIV in 2012, where he addressed bishops about the cultural climate he grew up in and his mixed feelings surrounding the gospel in relation to differing beliefs.

Hostin reminisced about the previous pope, Francis, stating, “Pope Francis significantly influenced perceptions of the LGBTQ+ community, actively working to extend blessings to them.” Another co-host, Ana Navarro, who also identifies as Catholic, highlighted the 2012 context when same-sex marriage was not as widely accepted as it is today, emphasizing the weight of the Pope’s statements at that time.

In earlier remarks, Pope Leo XIV had cautioned against what he terms “gender ideology,” which he believes creates misconceptions about gender. This contrasts sharply with Pope Francis, who reached out to the LGBTQ+ community but often referred to gender discussions as a pressing issue of our times.