US President Donald Trump tours the migrant detention center dubbed "Alligator Alcatraz," located at the site of the Dade-Collier Training and Transition Airport in Ochopee, Florida, on Tuesday.
A leading voice in the U.S. Catholic Church has issued a strong rebuke of Donald Trump’s immigration policies. Cardinal Robert McElroy, Archbishop of Washington, DC, described the mass deportations under Trump’s administration as “inhumane” and “morally repugnant” during an exclusive interview.
McElroy, a trusted ally of Pope Leo XIV, warned that the aggressive crackdown is tearing families apart, instilling fear, and undermining both human dignity and Catholic teachings.
Immigration Policy Sparks Outrage
Speaking from Rome, McElroy condemned the Trump administration’s broad targeting of undocumented immigrants.
He argued that what’s unfolding goes beyond legitimate border control. Instead, he said, the policy reflects “mass, indiscriminate deportations” that devastate entire families.
The Cardinal shared that many undocumented immigrants now fear everyday activities—even attending church—since agents are no longer barred from making arrests in religious spaces.
“What’s happening isn’t about criminals,” he stressed. “It’s about anyone they can find.”
Fear Among Immigrant Communities
McElroy criticized what he described as a climate of fear created by the administration. He referenced recent incidents in Los Angeles where federal agents descended on parking lots and workplaces like car washes and Costco locations.
“These are not raids aimed solely at criminals,” he said. “This is targeting ordinary people who have built lives here.”
He tied these actions to a historic pattern of prejudice in American immigration policy, comparing it to past discrimination against Irish, Italian, and Polish immigrants. “It’s the same theme again—calling newcomers inferior. That’s what’s behind much of this,” he argued.
Trump Defends ‘Alligator Alcatraz’
On the same day as the interview, Trump toured a migrant detention facility in Florida nicknamed “Alligator Alcatraz.” He embraced the name, calling it “very appropriate” given its swampy surroundings.
Trump maintained that the policy was necessary to protect American citizens and reduce the strain on U.S. systems.
But McElroy pushed back, acknowledging that while the state has the right to deport those convicted of serious crimes, current policies are far too broad and lack compassion.
US Catholic Bishops Push Back
McElroy isn’t alone in his criticism. Several Catholic bishops have spoken out against the administration’s immigration agenda. Yet the Church has come under fire from Vice President JD Vance, who accused religious leaders of having financial motives due to federal funds used for refugee resettlement.
McElroy dismissed those claims, insisting that the Church contributes far more than it receives, often covering gaps left by insufficient government funding. “Critics haven’t done the math,” he said.
Strong Opposition to Trump’s Economic Plan
Cardinal McElroy also voiced deep concerns about Trump’s proposed economic package, known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill.” The bill aims to extend tax cuts and boost national security spending, but also involves severe cuts to the social safety net.
He warned that millions could lose healthcare coverage while billionaires gain further tax relief. “Taking from the poorest to give to the wealthiest is just plain wrong,” McElroy stated.
In response, White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson dismissed the criticism, saying Trump is fulfilling the promises he made to the American people, not to religious leaders.
Women’s Role in the Church
On Church reform, McElroy emphasized the urgent need to elevate women’s roles within Catholic leadership. He supports the idea of ordaining women as deacons—a controversial but growing topic in Vatican discussions.
“The Church must ask, where are women not included—and why?” he said. He believes it’s time to move forward with inclusive practices that reflect current realities and theological openness.
Nuclear Strikes and Global Consequences
Cardinal McElroy also addressed U.S. airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, warning they could trigger wider nuclear proliferation. He fears the message being sent is that only nations with nuclear weapons are safe from attack, which could prompt more countries to arm themselves.
He stressed the importance of maintaining global efforts to curb nuclear weapons and warned of ominous consequences if that goal fails.
A Hopeful Visit from Pope Leo XIV
While he didn’t confirm details, McElroy said he expects Pope Leo XIV, the Chicago-born pontiff, to visit the U.S. eventually. “It will be a great moment for our country when he does,” he said.
