Journalist Katie Couric and Jesuit priest James Martin discussed Vice President J.D. Vance during a recent podcast episode, addressing his comments about Pope Leo XIV and broader tensions between U.S. political leadership and the Catholic Church, as reported by Fox News.

The conversation took place on Couric’s podcast, “The Next Question with Katie Couric,” where she referenced a reaction she previously posted in response to Vance’s remarks.

"As I wrote on a comment when somebody posted — JD Vance saying that — I said, 'JD Vance teaching the pope about theology, that's rich,'" Couric said.

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Couric’s comments came as she interviewed Martin about recent disagreements involving statements from President Donald Trump and Vice President Vance in relation to Pope Leo XIV’s positions on issues including war, morality, and political rhetoric.

Martin, who serves as editor-at-large of America Magazine, said Vance’s critique of the pope’s theological understanding stood out, given the pontiff’s academic background.

"The idea that JD Vance would tell someone who has a master's degree in divinity and a doctorate in canon law from a pontifical university that he doesn't know theology is really pretty shocking," Martin said.

He continued by emphasizing the pope’s experience and familiarity with theological study.

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"Well, and also, you know, the old saying is that he has probably forgotten more theology than most of us remember," Martin said. "The pope really knows his stuff."

Martin also addressed the specific subject of Vance’s criticism, noting its connection to Catholic teaching.

"And also, ironically, JD Vance started off by critiquing him for his understanding of the just war theory, which originates with St. Augustine — and Pope Leo is an Augustinian," Martin said.

The discussion occurred amid ongoing public disagreement between the Trump administration and the Vatican. Martin characterized the dynamic between the two sides as largely one-directional.

"I would say it's just a Tet Offensive because it's only one-sided because it's all coming from President Trump and Vice President Vance," Martin said.

Couric and Martin also discussed how reactions to the situation have varied among Catholics in the United States. Martin said political affiliation often shapes perspectives within the broader Catholic community.

"Catholics are not monolithic," Martin said. "Catholic Democrats vote Democrat, Catholic Republicans vote Republican."

He added that reactions to recent remarks by President Trump have been wide-ranging within the Church.

"I was hearing across the board from both progressives and traditional Catholics their disgust for that Truth Social post," Martin said.

The exchange highlighted the ongoing debate surrounding political leaders’ comments about religious figures and the intersection of public policy and faith. The discussion also reflected differing viewpoints within the Catholic community as it responds to statements from elected officials.

Fox News Digital reported that it reached out to the office of Vice President Vance for comment but did not receive an immediate response.

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