Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan confirmed that U.S. Vice President JD Vance expressed regret for his controversial comments regarding immigration and the nation’s Catholic bishops. Dolan made this announcement during a February 19 interview with Mark Irons from EWTN News.
Vice President Vance’s Controversial Comments
In a prior interview on January 26, 2025, Vance criticized the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), suggesting they prioritized financial gain over humanitarian values. He remarked that the bishops had received over $100 million to assist in resettling illegal immigrants, implying that their motives were not entirely altruistic.
Cardinal Dolan’s Response to Vance
During the EWTN News interview, Cardinal Dolan described Vance as “a very good guy,” though he disagreed with some of Vance’s assertions. Dolan specifically addressed Vance’s claims about the bishops making money off immigration, calling them “untrue” and “scurrilous.” He stated that Vance apologized for these remarks, acknowledging they were out of line.
Background on USCCB and Immigration Issues
The USCCB has been significantly involved in refugee resettlement, operating under a federal partnership that was recently disrupted. In January 2025, the Trump administration suspended its agreement with the USCCB and other agencies, leading to layoffs among resettlement staff and legal action for reimbursement of over $24 million in expenditures.
Cardinal Dolan on Immigration Principles
Cardinal Dolan emphasized that Catholic social teaching advocates for a balanced approach to immigration, recognizing the rights of individuals to migrate, a country’s right to regulate its borders, and the moral obligation to treat all individuals with justice and mercy. The cardinal praised Vance’s views on several issues but expressed his discontent with Vance’s stance on Ukraine amid ongoing conflict.
- Date of Interview: February 19, 2025
- Vance’s Claims: USCCB prioritized profit over humanitarian concerns.
- Cardinal’s Response: Addressed claims directly; Vance apologized.
- Immigration Principles: Rights of individuals, regulatory authority, and moral obligations.
Overall, the discussion highlighted the complexities of immigration policy and the intersection of faith and politics in contemporary America.
