Vance clashes with bishops over church immigration raids


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Vice President JD Vance engaged in a heated exchange with the US Conference of Catholic Bishops following their criticism of the Trump administration’s decision to permit ICE operations in churches and schools.

The Catholic organization had expressed strong opposition to the policy shift, arguing it would transform sanctuaries of healing and comfort into spaces of anxiety and uncertainty, potentially damaging the sacred relationship between religious leaders and their congregants.

During his appearance on CBS News’ “Face the Nation,” Vance, himself a Catholic convert, expressed his deep disappointment with the bishops’ stance.

He questioned the organization’s motives, suggesting their opposition might be financially motivated rather than driven by humanitarian concerns, citing their receipt of substantial funding for immigrant resettlement programs. Vance then redirected attention to what he viewed as more pressing issues, including child trafficking concerns under the current administration.

When host Margaret Brennan questioned whether religious institutions were deliberately sheltering individuals from law enforcement, Vance avoided a direct response, instead expressing his hope that the Catholic leadership would become more cooperative with immigration enforcement efforts.

Addressing concerns about the policy’s potential impact on school attendance, Vance was unequivocal in his support for its deterrent effect on unauthorized immigration.

The vice president’s Catholic faith, a relatively recent development following his 2019 conversion from evangelical protestantism, was reportedly influenced by tech entrepreneur Pete Thiel. This religious backdrop adds complexity to the ongoing tension between the Trump administration and Catholic leadership, including Pope Francis, who has openly criticized the administration’s deportation policies.

During the CBS interview, Vance defended the administration’s approach to immigration enforcement, emphasizing the need to protect American citizens. He argued that while the United States was established by immigrants and settlers, this historical fact shouldn’t dictate current immigration policies.

The conversation also touched on the administration’s temporary suspension of the refugee program. When Brennan highlighted the extensive vetting process for refugees, Vance expressed skepticism about its effectiveness, citing security concerns and potential risks to American communities.

This televised discussion marked Vance’s first major broadcast interview since assuming the vice presidency, highlighting the administration’s increasingly firm stance on immigration enforcement and its willingness to challenge religious institutions on matters of policy.

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