Tillis says Trump should apologize to pope: ‘When you’re wrong, you’re wrong’

The Hill
by Ryan Mancini
April 16, 2026
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3 min read

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Sen. Thom Tillis states President Trump should apologize to Pope Leo XIV for their public spat.

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Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) publicly stated that President Trump should apologize to Pope Leo XIV following their public spat over the U.S.-Israeli conflict in Iran. Tillis emphasized that "when you're wrong, you're wrong," suggesting Trump's comments were inappropriate for a religious leader. This marks a rare instance of a prominent Republican senator openly criticizing President Trump and calling for an apology to a global religious figure. Tillis differentiated this situation from typical political rhetoric, noting that accusations like "soft on crime or soft on the border" are reserved for election opponents. The comments highlight potential friction within the Republican party regarding the President's diplomatic exchanges.

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Pope Leo XIV's Condemnation of 'Tyrants' and Trump Spat

Pope Leo XIV, during his visit to Cameroon, strongly condemned 'tyrants' who exploit the land and spend billions on wars, a statement widely interpreted as a rebuke of President Trump following a recent public disagreement. The Pope's remarks have drawn significant attention and commentary.

Pope Leo XIV's Criticism of 'Tyrants' and Spat with Trump

Pope Leo XIV, during his visit to Cameroon, strongly criticized 'tyrants' who spend billions on wars and exploit the world. These remarks came days after a public disagreement with U.S. President Donald Trump, leading to calls for Trump to apologize.

Pope Leo XIV's Criticism of 'Tyrants' and Spat with Trump

Pope Leo XIV has publicly condemned 'tyrants' who spend billions on wars, making these remarks during his visit to Cameroon. These statements came shortly after a public disagreement with President Trump, leading to calls for Trump to apologize to the Pontiff.

Pope Leo XIV's Criticism of 'Tyrants' and Trump Spat

Pope Leo XIV, during a visit to Cameroon, strongly condemned 'tyrants' for 'ravaging the Earth with war and exploitation.' These remarks came days after a public disagreement with President Donald Trump, leading to calls for Trump to apologize.

Pope Leo XIV's Criticism of 'Tyrants' Amidst Feud with Trump

Pope Leo XIV, during a visit to Cameroon, strongly condemned 'tyrants' for 'ravaging the Earth with war and exploitation.' These remarks came amidst a public disagreement with President Donald Trump, leading to speculation about the target of his criticism.

Pope Leo XIV's Criticism of 'Tyrants' Amidst Feud with Trump

Pope Leo XIV has publicly condemned 'tyrants' who 'ravage the world with war and exploitation' during his visit to Cameroon. These remarks come amidst an ongoing public feud with President Trump, who has criticized the Pope.

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