Cardinal Robert McElroy has been appointed as the new archbishop of Washington, D.C., succeeding Cardinal Wilton Gregory, who has stepped down to retire. McElroy is recognized as one of the most progressive voices within the U.S. Catholic Church, particularly advocating for immigrant rights and other progressive causes. His appointment comes during a politically charged environment, marked by potential conflicts with the incoming Trump administration, notably regarding immigration policies.
McElroy, who has served as the bishop of San Diego since 2015, has openly criticized the idea of large-scale deportations, asserting that such actions contradict Catholic doctrine. Following Trump’s election, he, along with other U.S. bishops, voiced strong support for immigrants, participating in various statements and initiatives opposing the administration’s hardline immigration stance. In a recent statement, he emphasized the need to challenge those advocating for aggressive deportation measures.
As tensions rise between moderate and progressive Catholics and traditionalist factions aligned with Republicans, McElroy’s leadership signifies a shift within the Church’s hierarchy. Some analysts view his appointment as a symbolic stance against the more right-wing Catholic figures emerging within Trump’s cabinet, including Vice President-elect JD Vance and other key nominees.
As a supporter of Pope Francis, McElroy has encouraged inclusivity towards marginalized groups, including LGBTQ+ individuals, and has shown openness to discussions about women’s roles in the Church. His leadership is expected to confront the rising influence of more conservative Catholic entities, further highlighting ideological divisions existing within U.S. Catholicism. Overall, McElroy’s ascendancy to archbishop signals a commitment to progressive values amidst a sharply divided political and religious landscape.
