A political controversy has erupted after former U.S. President Barack Obama was accused of allegedly working with Pope Leo XIV in an effort to weaken Republican electoral prospects ahead of upcoming elections.
The claim was made by financier Hal Lambert during a CNN panel discussion, where he suggested that meetings involving Obama allies and the pontiff signaled coordinated political intent targeting Republican voters, particularly within the Catholic community.
Accusation on CNN
Point Bridge Capital CEO Hal Lambert made the claim during an appearance on NewsNight with Abby Phillip.
Lambert said the effort involves Obama, the pope, and David Axelrod, a former Obama aide who now serves as CNN’s chief political analyst.
Lambert urged viewers to “connect the dots.” He pointed to a recent visit by Axelrod to Pope Leo and suggested Obama may also meet the pope soon. Lambert described the alleged plan as Chicago-centered because of the shared connections among the figures.
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The segment aired as tensions continue between President Donald Trump and Pope Leo XIV over issues including the war in Iran and U.S. immigration policy. Trump has publicly criticized the pope in recent days.
No Response From Accused Parties
The White House, Obama’s office, and the Vatican had not commented on Lambert’s remarks by late Tuesday. Axelrod also did not respond to requests for comment.
Lambert, a supporter of Trump and the Republican Party, runs an investment firm. He has appeared on CNN before to discuss markets and politics.
The accusation comes days after Trump shared and later deleted a social media image showing himself in a Jesus-like pose, which drew criticism from some Republicans. Pope Leo has spoken about seeking peace and avoiding violence in international conflicts.
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The claim surfaces at a time of heightened friction between the Trump administration and the Catholic Church. Pope Leo XIV has repeatedly called for ceasefires in ongoing global conflicts and expressed concern over strict U.S. immigration measures.
Trump has responded by accusing the Vatican of interfering in American politics. Meanwhile, Obama has stayed largely out of the daily political fray since leaving office but continues to speak at Democratic events.
Why this matters
These claims add to existing divides between Trump supporters and critics of the administration’s foreign and domestic policies. Public trust in political and religious leaders can drop when such theories gain attention, even without evidence.
Midterm elections are months away. Any perceived interference by high-profile figures, real or alleged, can influence voter turnout and campaign strategies for both parties.
