Donald Trump's Use Of Pope Leo XIII's Writings: A Rhetorical Analysis

James

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Post on May 11, 2025

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Donald Trump's Use of Pope Leo XIII's Writings: A Rhetorical Analysis

Donald Trump's presidency was marked by a complex relationship with religious rhetoric, often employing surprisingly specific theological references to bolster his political arguments. One less-examined aspect of this is his infrequent, yet intriguing, use of the writings of Pope Leo XIII, particularly those concerning social justice and the role of the state. This article delves into a rhetorical analysis of Trump's appropriation of Leo XIII's work, exploring its strategic implications and the potential disconnect between the source material and its political application.

Leo XIII: A Conservative Pope with a Social Conscience

Pope Leo XIII (1878-1903) is remembered for his encyclical Rerum Novarum (1891), a landmark document addressing the social question arising from the Industrial Revolution. This encyclical, advocating for workers' rights and the just distribution of wealth, has become a cornerstone of Catholic social teaching. However, Leo XIII's writings also emphasize the importance of private property, subsidiarity (the principle of solving problems at the lowest level possible), and the role of the Church in upholding social order. This complex legacy presents a rich, yet potentially contradictory, source for political appropriation.

Trump's Selective Engagement with Rerum Novarum

While Trump rarely directly quoted Leo XIII, instances of his rhetoric echoing themes from Rerum Novarum – particularly those emphasizing national strength and economic prosperity – are noteworthy. For example, Trump's emphasis on "America First" policies, focusing on domestic economic growth and protectionism, could be interpreted, albeit loosely, as aligning with Leo XIII's emphasis on national self-sufficiency and the importance of a strong economy as a foundation for social justice. However, this interpretation ignores the crucial difference: Leo XIII advocated for a just economy that benefits all citizens, while Trump's policies have often been criticized for exacerbating existing inequalities.

The Rhetorical Strategy: Appealing to a Broad Base?

Trump's selective use of Leo XIII's ideas can be seen as a rhetorical strategy designed to appeal to a broad base of supporters. By invoking a respected figure like Pope Leo XIII, even indirectly, Trump could potentially garner support from devout Catholics while simultaneously appealing to his broader populist base. This strategy cleverly navigates the complexities of religious and political discourse, allowing him to subtly associate himself with traditional values without explicitly endorsing specific Church doctrines.

The Disconnect: Substance over Style?

The core problem with Trump's use of Leo XIII's writings lies in the disconnect between the substance of the Pope's message and the actual policies implemented. While Rerum Novarum emphasizes social justice and the dignity of the worker, Trump's policies were often criticized for their impact on vulnerable populations and the environment. This creates a significant rhetorical dissonance, undermining the credibility of his appeals to Leo XIII's legacy.

Conclusion: A Case Study in Rhetorical Manipulation?

Donald Trump's engagement with Pope Leo XIII's writings offers a fascinating case study in political rhetoric. His selective appropriation of themes from Rerum Novarum and other papal pronouncements highlights the potential for manipulating religious symbolism for political gain. While Trump might have aimed to broaden his appeal, the inherent contradictions between his policies and Leo XIII's social teaching ultimately expose the limitations of this rhetorical strategy. Further research into the specific instances and the broader context of these references is needed to fully understand their impact on his political narrative. This analysis underscores the importance of critically examining the use of religious rhetoric in political discourse, paying close attention to the potential for misrepresentation and manipulative appropriation.