ADVERTISEMENTs
Leavitt rejects Pope's criticism of US migrant policies
Leavitt also pointed to crimes committed by undocumented immigrants as evidence of the need for vigorous enforcement.
-
Lalit K Jha (5WH) - Thu, 02, Oct 2025
- 01:45 EDT
- 11
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt / Lalit K Jha
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt Oct. 1 rejected criticism from Pope Leo that U.S. immigration enforcement under President Trump was inhumane, saying the administration was upholding laws “in the most humane way possible.”
The Pope's comments followed Senator Dick Durbin's decision to decline a Catholic Church award, citing controversy over his stance on immigration. Pope Leo questioned how someone could oppose abortion while tolerating the harsh treatment of migrants in the United States.
Asked about the remarks, Leavitt pushed back firmly. "I would reject that there is inhumane treatment of illegal immigrants in the United States under this administration," she said. "There was, however, significant inhumane treatment of illegal immigrants in the previous administration, as they were being trafficked and raped and beaten and, in many cases, killed over our United States southern border."
ALSO READ: Pope Leo criticizes 'inhuman' treatment of immigrants in US
Leavitt also pointed to crimes committed by undocumented immigrants as evidence of the need for vigorous enforcement. "You look at the inhumane treatment at the hands of some of these illegal immigrants that took place under the previous administration as well," she said. "Laken Riley comes to mind, a beautiful American citizen who was killed at the hands of an illegal immigrant."
The press secretary said the Trump administration was committed to enforcing immigration laws fairly. "This administration is trying to enforce our nation's laws in the most humane way possible," she said. "And we're upholding the law on behalf of the people of our country who live here."
Her comments underscored how immigration has become central to the ongoing government shutdown, with Republicans insisting Democrats want taxpayer-funded healthcare for migrants. Vice President JD Vance said Democrats were "holding critical services hostage" to secure benefits for undocumented immigrants.
The exchange highlighted the political and cultural dimensions of the immigration debate, with Catholic leaders weighing in on morality and the White House responding with law-and-order rhetoric. Leavitt insisted the administration's approach balanced compassion with responsibility. "We want a system that is fair, that is legal, and that prioritises American citizens," she said.
Related
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
E Paper
ADVERTISEMENT
Video
Comments
Start the conversation
Become a member of New India Abroad to start commenting.
Sign Up Now
Already have an account? Login