Papal-US Political Play
How does the Pope influence the landscape of politics?
4.7 (18)
39 mins
Learn how the Pope of the Vatican have influenced the US and global politics, throughout years. Explore the effects of Pope Francis's progressive immigration stance versus conservative bishops on abortion, and how Catholics are fueling partisan rifts on IVF, borders, and church roles.
Ep 1:
The Pope's Invisible Empire
No armies, no economy—just 1.3 billion followers and a seat at every global table; discover how the Pope wields power through the Vatican's hidden diplomatic machine.
Ep 2:
From Pulpit to Supreme Court
Secret Vatican diplomacy cracked open Cuba, while a Catholic supermajority on the Supreme Court quietly rewrote American law—tracing Catholic influence from parish pews to the highest bench.
Ep 3:
Francis and the Democrats' Favorite Pontiff
Pope Francis's progressive turn made him a Democratic darling—from Tim Kaine's papal hero-worship to Bernie Sanders's unprecedented Vatican invitation—but not everyone was cheering.
Ep 4:
Francis vs. Washington's Old Guard
Francis's open-border, anti-war stances put him on a collision course with American power players, from Trump's border wall fight to Pompeo's China showdown and his own controversial bishop picks.
Ep 5:
The Church Divided, The Future Unwritten
As traditionalist Catholics rise against Francis's liberal legacy, a fractured Church faces its biggest question yet: who will inherit—and wield—the Pope's extraordinary power next?
Discussions (13)
Susan
Level 4 · 8 mo agoThe Pope mediating the Cuba deal was a total game changer! It’s wild that he has so much diplomatic power without even having an army. 🤯
Glenn
Level 7 · 9 mo agoHad no clue the Pope helped with the Cuba deal. That is some serious hidden power right there lol 😂
Arthur
Level 4 · 8 mo agoHe holds zero real power
