Jonathan Nez, candidate for Arizona’s 2nd Congressional District and former President of the Navajo Nation, released a statement on President Trump’s remarks about Pope Leo XIV. In the statement issued from Flagstaff, Nez said the president’s comments were concerning and called for unity during ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.
“The statements from President Trump directed at Pope Leo XIV are deeply concerning and do nothing to bring people together or work toward a peaceful solution in the Middle East. In a time when our military servicemen are putting their lives on the line, our leaders must choose unity, respect, and prayer over division,” Nez said.
Nez continued by emphasizing that disagreements on foreign policy should not undermine faith or dignity. “We can disagree on foreign policy without undermining faith and dignity. The ongoing conflict in Iran demands thoughtful leadership, diplomacy, and a commitment to protecting all human life. I commend Pope Leo’s calls for peace and reconciliation. As Pope Leo has reminded all of us and the bible says, ‘Blessed are the peace makers, for they shall be the Children of God (Matthew 5:9).’”
He concluded by urging leaders to reduce public anger and seek solutions based on shared humanity. “Our leaders have a responsibility to lessen the public anger, respect one another, and work toward solutions that reflect our shared humanity.”
Nez is running as the 2024 Democratic nominee for Congress in Arizona’s 2nd District. He previously served as President of the Navajo Nation after beginning his career in public service in Shonto on the Navajo Nation. According to the organization’s website, he is focused on lowering costs for families, delivering water security to Arizonans, and representing rural communities.
