Published 19.25
In his first address focusing on American politics, US Pope Leo XIV calls for “moderation” in US public debate as the country celebrates its 250th birthday.
In a recorded speech relayed to the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, the Pope urges Americans to “a public debate marked by moderation, respect for the opinions of others and a continuous effort to find common ground.”
He also said that “successive waves of immigrants” have shaped the country’s future.
The Pope has criticized President Donald Trump several times in recent months for his tough stance on immigration in the United States and for the war against Iran.
Trump, in turn, has called the pope “weak” when it comes to crime and “terrible” when it comes to foreign policy.
