Tillis Calls for Trump to Apologize to Pope

Senator says 'When you're wrong, you're wrong' regarding past comments.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 4:26am

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A moody, realistic painting of an empty government building or legislative chamber, with warm light streaming through the windows and deep shadows cast across the interior, conveying a sense of political tension and solemnity.Tillis' call for an apology from Trump to the Pope reflects the delicate diplomatic balance between the U.S. presidency and the papacy.Oklahoma City Today

Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina has publicly called for former President Donald Trump to apologize to Pope Francis, stating that when someone is wrong, they should acknowledge it. Tillis' comments come in response to past statements made by Trump that were critical of the Pope.

Why it matters

The relationship between the U.S. president and the Pope is an important diplomatic and symbolic one, so Tillis' call for an apology highlights the political tensions that can arise when those two offices clash.

The details

Tillis, a Republican senator, said that Trump should apologize for any past comments that were disrespectful toward the Pope. While Tillis did not specify which exact statements he was referring to, Trump has made several critical remarks about Pope Francis over the years, including questioning the Pope's faith and even calling him 'disgraceful'.

  • Tillis made these comments on April 16, 2026.

The players

Thom Tillis

A Republican senator from North Carolina.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States who has made critical comments about Pope Francis in the past.

Pope Francis

The current Pope and leader of the Catholic Church.

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What they’re saying

“When you're wrong, you're wrong. And I think the former president should apologize to the pope.”

— Thom Tillis, U.S. Senator

The takeaway

Tillis' call for an apology highlights the ongoing political tensions that can arise when the U.S. president and the Pope have conflicting views or make critical statements about one another. It underscores the diplomatic importance of maintaining a respectful relationship between these two powerful offices.