As the Vatican prepares for a conclave to choose Pope Francis’s successor, conservative American Catholics aligned with the “Maga” movement are mobilizing to influence the church’s future direction. Discontented with what they perceive as liberal policies under Francis, they are advocating for a return to traditional doctrines on issues like sexuality, marriage, and abortion
Despite being a minority, this faction is influential due to its wealth and engagement. However, most cardinals were appointed by Francis, making a significant ideological shift unlikely. Experts note a broader trend of increasing conservatism among young and newly ordained priests in the U.S., suggesting a growing divide within the global Catholic Church
