Trump vs. the Pope
The Daily
Apr 16, 2026
Natalie Kitroef and Motoko Rich examine the unprecedented clash between President Trump and Pope Leo XIV over the war in Iran. While the administration weaponizes Christian theology to justify military action, the American-born Pope leverages his moral authority to defy White House intimidation. This confrontation marks a historic struggle for influence over millions of faithful voters.
Key insight: In a bizarre escalation, President Trump posted an AI-generated image of himself as a Christ-like figure, later claiming he was simply depicting himself as a "doctor" after facing accusations of blasphemy from across the Christian spectrum.
