Paul Kengor, the editor of The American Spectator, recently appeared on EWTN News Nightly to discuss the historical connections between popes and U.S. presidents, coinciding with Presidents’ Day. Kengor, who has written extensively on this topic, including his book "A Pope and a President: John Paul II, Ronald Reagan, and the Extraordinary Untold Story of the 20th Century," shared insights with host Tracy Sabol about the evolving relationship between the Vatican and American leadership.
Kengor highlighted that the relationship dates back to the 1930s, noting that Pope Paul VI was the first pope to visit the United States during Lyndon B. Johnson’s presidency. He pointed out that John Paul II was the first pope to meet with a sitting president at the White House, having met both Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan. This milestone marked a significant moment in the history of papal visits to the U.S.
The discussion also touched on the close ties between John Paul VI and President Richard Nixon, with Kengor describing their shared views on foreign policy, particularly regarding the Cold War. This unexpected alliance, he noted, was indicative of the broader collaborative spirit that could exist between the Vatican and U.S. leaders.
A significant portion of the conversation focused on the relationship between President Ronald Reagan and Pope John Paul II. Kengor recounted how both leaders survived assassination attempts within a short time frame of each other, which forged a profound bond between them. Their meeting at the Vatican in June 1982 was pivotal, as both believed they had been spared for a divine purpose: to work together to peacefully combat Soviet communism and ultimately bring about the end of the Cold War.
The interview also included reflections on contemporary politics, particularly President Donald Trump’s assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, and his interactions with Pope Francis. Kengor expressed optimism about a future meeting between Trump and the pope, suggesting that their relationship could be amicable.
Kengor concluded by noting that the Vatican’s recognition by President Reagan marked the beginning of a steady relationship that has lasted over four decades, emphasizing the importance of this diplomatic connection in the context of global politics.
For those interested in the full discussion, the interview is available for viewing online.