Catholic Archbishop Rebukes Trump’s Immigration Policies as DOJ Supports Religious Political Activity

Cardinal Robert McElroy of Washington, D.C., urged his congregation to rebuke support for President Donald Trump’s immigration policies during a Sunday commemoration for the World Day of Migrants and Refugees. His remarks came amid broader discussions about the role of religious institutions in political discourse, particularly as the Justice Department weighed in on whether such advocacy violates the law.

McElroy, a known critic of Trump, highlighted what he described as a shift in U.S. immigration enforcement under the administration. He argued that policies have moved from targeting individuals who committed serious crimes to undermining protections for refugees and asylum seekers. “For us as a nation, we can pass by no more,” he said, calling for an end to what he called “the evil being carried out in our name.”

The archbishop’s comments were part of a broader debate about the limits of religious speech in politics. Some religious groups have challenged the Johnson Amendment, which prohibits nonprofits from endorsing political candidates. Troy Miller of the National Religious Broadcasters argued in 2024 that churches should have the right to express views on elections and candidates without fear of losing their tax-exempt status.

McElroy’s remarks did not explicitly instruct congregants on how to vote, which may have helped avoid violating the Johnson Amendment. The amendment, named after former President Lyndon B. Johnson, prohibits nonprofits from using their platforms to endorse political candidates. While the law is rarely enforced, its implications remain a point of contention for religious groups seeking to engage in political advocacy.

The Justice Department’s involvement in the debate reflects the tension between religious freedom and legal constraints on political speech. As religious institutions navigate these issues, they continue to grapple with their role in public life, balancing advocacy with compliance. The discussion underscores the complex relationship between faith, governance, and the rights of religious organizations in the political arena.

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