Pope Leo XIV delivered a message of unity while accepting the National Constitution Center’s 2026 Liberty Medal on July 4, 2026, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the United States. As the first American pope, he has commented on U.S. policy and values during his tenure. In his speech, he emphasized the importance of unity in the founding principles of America, stating, "The principles that inspired America’s founders... brought them together in a single cause, a common dream." He also called for blessings upon America’s future, urging that the ideals of the Declaration of Independence guide the nation towards unity, justice, and peace.
Despite previous tensions with the Trump administration regarding the Iran conflict, relations have improved, as noted by a recent meeting between Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Pope Leo. The Pope is the 38th recipient of the Liberty Medal, which honors individuals who promote liberty globally, with past recipients including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and historians Ken Burns, Anthony M. Kennedy, and Ruth Bader Ginsburg.