Pope Francis Dead, What Comes Next?

The Legacy of Pope Francis

Shapiro begins by acknowledging that Pope Francis's death was anticipated due to his declining health. He notes that the media has largely framed the Pope's legacy through a political lens, particularly emphasizing his opposition to former President Donald Trump. Shapiro argues that the left-leaning media celebrated Pope Francis primarily because he aligned with their views on issues like immigration and social justice, often portraying him as a progressive figure. However, he points out that the Pope maintained traditional stances on key moral issues such as same-sex marriage, abortion, and transgenderism, which the media tends to overlook.

Shapiro critiques the media's narrative that Pope Francis's outreach to marginalized communities, including migrants and victims of abuse, was a hallmark of his papacy. He suggests that while the Pope's empathy was commendable, it often lacked moral clarity on significant global conflicts, such as those in Gaza and Ukraine. Shapiro expresses a desire for the next Pope to provide stronger moral guidance and clarity on these pressing issues.

The Conclave and Potential Successors

With the Pope's passing, Shapiro transitions to discussing the upcoming Conclave, where the College of Cardinals will elect a new Pope. He explains the historical context of the Conclave, noting that it was established to prevent prolonged vacancies in the papacy. The Cardinals will be sequestered, and the election process will culminate in the emergence of white smoke from the Vatican chimney, signaling the selection of a new Pope.

Shapiro outlines several potential candidates for the papacy, highlighting their varying degrees of conservatism and progressivism. He notes that many of the Cardinals appointed by Pope Francis share his liberal views, which could lead to the continuation of a leftward shift in the Church. However, he also mentions some conservative candidates who may challenge this trend. The outcome of the Conclave will have significant implications for the direction of the Catholic Church and its engagement with contemporary issues.

Economic Concerns and Political Implications

Shapiro shifts the conversation to the state of the U.S. economy, which he describes as tumultuous. He discusses the recent decline in the stock market, attributing it to a lack of confidence in economic policies and the ongoing trade war initiated by Trump. Shapiro argues that the administration's approach to tariffs has not been well-calibrated, leading to volatility in the markets. He emphasizes the need for a coherent trade policy that prioritizes American interests while effectively addressing challenges posed by countries like China.

In this context, Shapiro expresses concern about the potential impact of economic instability on the Republican Party's brand. He warns that a struggling economy could revitalize the Democratic Party, which has been perceived as weak in recent years. Shapiro believes that the Republican Party must focus on sound economic policies to maintain its electoral strength.

Immigration Policy and Political Strategy

The podcast also delves into immigration policy, where Shapiro critiques the Democratic Party's approach. He argues that Democrats have failed to effectively counter Trump's immigration policies, which resonate with many Americans. Shapiro suggests that the Democrats should adopt a more pragmatic stance, emphasizing the importance of due process for immigrants while also addressing public safety concerns.

Shapiro highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the treatment of illegal immigrants and the need for a balanced approach that respects the law while ensuring the safety of American citizens. He points out that the current political climate presents an opportunity for Republicans to solidify their position on immigration by advocating for lawful and effective policies.

The Role of the Media and Political Dynamics

Throughout the podcast, Shapiro critiques the media's role in shaping public perception of both the Pope and political issues. He argues that the media often distorts narratives to fit their ideological agendas, which can lead to misunderstandings about key figures and policies. Shapiro emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and independent analysis in navigating the complex landscape of contemporary politics.

As the podcast concludes, Shapiro reiterates the significance of the Pope's death and the potential for the next papacy to influence global politics and the Catholic Church's direction. He expresses hope that the new Pope will provide the moral clarity and leadership needed in a world facing numerous challenges.