Brooks and Capehart on Trump and Vance clashing with Pope Leo

PBS NewsHour
by Amna Nawaz
April 17, 2026
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2 min read

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David Brooks and Jonathan Capehart discussed President Trump and Vice President Vance clashing with Pope Leo.

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David Brooks of The Atlantic and Jonathan Capehart of MS NOW joined Amna Nawaz to discuss recent political developments. Their conversation focused on President Trump's claim that Iran has "agreed to everything" in U.S. talks and is suspending its nuclear program. The discussion also covered President Trump and Vice President Vance publicly clashing with Pope Leo. Additionally, they addressed the resignations of two lawmakers from Congress due to sexual misconduct allegations.

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Vice President Vance's Comments on Pope Leo

Vice President JD Vance has publicly admonished Pope Leo XIV (or Pope Francis in some reports), warning him to 'be careful' when discussing theological matters, particularly after the Pontiff's critique of Iran. These comments have sparked debate and drawn attention to the intersection of politics and religion.

Trump's Dispute with Pope Leo

President Trump's ongoing dispute with Pope Leo has become a significant talking point, with the Pope's Africa trip marked by an open clash. This conflict is reportedly deepening divisions within conservative political circles.

Global Power Shifts

Tracking the changing dynamics of global power, including US-China competition, Russia's geopolitical moves, shifting alliances, NATO developments, and the emergence of new power blocs reshaping the international order.

Trump's Public Clash with Pope Leo XIV

A public dispute between President Trump and Pope Leo XIV has escalated, transforming the Pope's public image and deepening divisions among conservative figures. The clash has become a significant talking point in political and religious circles.

Trump's Dispute with Pope Leo XIV

A public dispute has escalated between President Trump and Pope Leo XIV, transforming the Pope's public image and deepening divisions among conservative figures. The conflict has become a significant topic of discussion in both religious and political circles.

Trump's Dispute with Pope Leo XIV

A public dispute has escalated between President Trump and Pope Leo XIV, particularly during the Pope's African tour. This conflict has been noted for deepening divisions within conservative political circles and has been a topic of significant media coverage.

Trump's Feud with Pope Leo XIV and its Impact on US Catholics

A deepening feud between President Trump and Pope Leo XIV is causing significant division within the US Catholic community and among political conservatives. The Pope's recent visit to Africa has been marked by this public clash, with some suggesting Trump's attacks have emboldened the Pontiff.

Trump's Feud with Pope Leo XIV

President Trump engaged in an unprecedented public feud with Pope Leo XIV, causing division among US Catholics and drawing international attention. The dispute escalated during the Pope's African tour, with many observing that Trump's attacks inadvertently strengthened the Pope's public voice.

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