Border Commissioner Criticizes Pope’s View on Immigration
Tom Homan, the Border Commissioner, has expressed frustration with Pope Leo XIV, suggesting a lack of understanding regarding the impact of President Donald Trump’s immigration policies, which he argues save many migrant lives each year.
“What he doesn’t comprehend is the other side of illegal immigration,” Homan shared with Breitbart News, responding to the Pope’s statements about immigration. He emphasized the dangers faced by migrants, mentioning that under President Joe Biden, a significant percentage of women have experienced assault during their journeys, while thousands of foreign nationals have died trying to cross borders.
Homan continued by asserting, “When you overwhelm the Border Patrol, it creates conditions that allow issues like sex trafficking and drug problems to escalate. Securing the borders actually saves lives. It’s not a victimless crime.”
He stated that Trump effectively reduced illegal immigration by 96%, which has contributed to saving thousands of lives annually.
However, reports indicate that Homan’s assertions might not fully account for the high migrant death rates and the consequences of increased migration under the current administration.
To date, it’s unclear whether Catholic bishops have acknowledged the severe implications tied to mass immigration.
When questioned about media coverage of Catholic bishops’ recent pro-immigration remarks, Homan mentioned his long-standing commitment to Catholicism, noting, “The Catholic faith has always been supportive of law enforcement, and it should continue to be.”
Popes often shift between their idealistic views and the complexities of supporting mass migration. Public opinion among many Catholics seems to lean against extensive immigration despite a desire to assist the less fortunate.
Homan pointed out that while hard-working immigrants, such as Latinos, contribute to society, they also create competitive dynamics within the labor market. Some immigrants bring problematic cultural elements, which raises concerns in certain communities.
Cardinal Fabio Baggio, from the Vatican’s Secretariat for Migration, remarked that to counteract illegal migration—which can be exploited for gains by traffickers—it’s essential to create more legal migration routes. He believes that those in irregular situations should be guided toward regularization, emphasizing their humanity.
Baggio expressed, “They are children of God, knocking on the door of our charity. We must strive for their normalization.”
Recently, a group of Catholic bishops publicly urged for an overhaul of the U.S. immigration system to provide pathways to citizenship for immigrants, aiming to benefit those who work hard.
Brian Birch, an ambassador to the Vatican, discussed the broader context of immigration issues, noting that challenges related to mass migration are not confined to the U.S. He stressed the need for laws that ensure the dignity of immigrants while respecting national regulations, echoing sentiments put forth by Pope Leo.
Birch stated, “The president faces the challenge of restoring order amidst the chaos inherited at the border. Many have crossed, leaving families worried about their safety.”
He framed current policies as grounded not in hatred, but in moral interests focused on safety and security.
In addressing the bishops, Homan candidly criticized their stance, asserting that there are pressing issues within the Catholic Church that warrant attention.
