Vatican Appoints Liberal Cardinal, Trump Critic as Archbishop of Washington, DC

One church historian calls the decision a ‘bold move’ by the Pope and a ‘statement’ to the incoming administration.

AP/Andrew Medichini
Newly created Cardinal Robert Walter McElroy, Bishop of San Diego, attends a reception for relatives and friends in the Paul VI Hall at the Vatican in 2022. AP/Andrew Medichini

Two weeks before the new president is sworn in, the Vatican is naming a prominent liberal cardinal and critic of President-elect Trump to lead the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C.

Have an account? Log In

To continue reading, please select:

Limited Access

Enter your email to read for FREE

Get 1 FREE article

Continue with
or
Unlimited Access

Join the Sun for a PENNY A DAY

$0.01/day for 60 days

Cancel anytime

100% ad free experience

Unlimited article and commenting access

Full annual dues ($120) billed after 60 days

By continuing you agree to our
Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.
Advertisement
The New York Sun

© 2025 The New York Sun Company, LLC. All rights reserved.

Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. The material on this site is protected by copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used.

The New York Sun

Sign in or  Create a free account

or
By continuing you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use