Thune urges Trump to ‘leave the church alone’ after president rips pope over Iran

Published April 13, 2026 8:56pm ET | Updated April 13, 2026 8:56pm ET



Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) urged President Donald Trump to “leave the church alone” after the president sharply criticized the pope over the war in Iran.

Thune made the remarks when asked about Trump’s attacks on Pope Leo XIV, who has condemned the conflict and called for immediate de-escalation.

Already a print subscriber? Click here to login/register your account

Trusted reporting.Unlimited access.

Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism.

Get Unlimited Access

Already a member? Log in

Cancel anytime.