Pope Leo XIV declined to respond when asked about President Trump’s deployment of 400 National Guard troops to Chicago, stating that he preferred not to comment on political matters in the United States.
During a media encounter, a reporter asked, “President Trump has sent 400 National Guard troops to your city, Chicago…” to which the pontiff replied, “Yes. I prefer not to comment at this time about choices made, political choices within the United States.”
The exchange underscores a sensitive balance: while Pope Leo was born and raised in Chicago, he appears intent on avoiding entanglement in U.S. domestic politics.
The deployment of National Guard troops to Chicago has sparked legal and political controversy. Illinois officials have challenged the move, arguing that federal deployment without local consent may violate state sovereignty and constitutional bounds.
