The Pope v Trump

The Pope v Trump

Author: The Times April 15, 2026 Duration: 31:13

Over the weekend, Donald Trump posted an image of himself as a Jesus Christ like figure, which was subsequently deleted. It came after the President and the Pope exchanged a war of words over the conflict in Iran. What’s behind this latest spat, and how could it affect Trump’s standing among American’s Christians?


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Guests: 

  • Kaya Burgess, science and religious affairs correspondent, The Times, and 
  • Christopher Hale, Democratic operative and author of Letters from Leo substack.

Host: Manveen Rana.

Producers: Edward Drummond.

We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com

Read more: Trump’s row with Pope Leo could cost him dearly among Catholic voters

Clips: Times Radio, Fox News, Vatican News, 9News, BBC, Forbes, USA Today, CBS News. 

Photo: Getty Images.

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Each morning, The Story arrives with a clear purpose: to move beyond the headlines and explore the forces and people shaping our world. Guided by the experienced reporting of Manveen Rana and Luke Jones, this daily podcast from The Times delves into the most significant political developments and news events with a level of depth and context that only their global network of journalists can provide. You’ll hear more than just summaries; you’ll get a nuanced understanding of why a story matters, who it impacts, and what might happen next. The analysis is sharp and the storytelling is compelling, designed to fit into your morning routine seven days a week. It’s a direct line to the frontline reporting and editorial expertise of one of the world’s most respected news organizations. This consistent, in-depth approach makes the podcast a reliable resource for anyone looking to truly comprehend the day’s events. Supported by readers of The Times and The Sunday Times, the production maintains a commitment to journalistic integrity and thorough exploration, ensuring every episode provides substance and clarity.
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