Pope Leo XIV welcomes journalists aboard his plane amid White House media ban
Pope Leo XIV told reporters they could join him on his aircraft, emphasizing the need for media coverage while the Trump administration seeks to bar journalists from the White House.
During a stop in France at the start of a four-day trip, Pope Leo XIV invited members of the press onto his plane, underscoring the role of journalists in covering public figures. He made the comment after being asked about the Trump administration’s effort to exclude U.S. media from the White House. The pontiff said he was pleased that reporters were welcome on his flight. His remarks highlight a contrast between the Vatican’s openness to the press and the U.S. administration’s restrictive policy.
Why it matters
It highlights a clash between a major religious leader’s support for press freedom and a U.S. government's effort to limit media access.
How this story developed
- Sep 15 Pope Leon XIV's French tour set for mostly sunny weather across three cities
- Sep 25 Pope Leo XIV arrived in Paris and began his four‑day visit with a meeting with President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace.
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