It's an uncommon position within the diplomatic sphere that demands skillful maneuvering through matters of religious respect and international disparities.
Brian Burch of Lombard is advocating for President Donald Trump’s perspective at the Vatican, which is headed by a Pope whom he has openly criticized.
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"I am profoundly honored and feel greatly humbled to have been nominated by President Trump to serve as the U.S. ambassador to the Holy See," stated Burch at the beginning of his testimony before the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations.
He was set to serve as the U.S. government representative for over 50 million American Catholics to their ecclesiastical authority and the Catholic sovereign state.
Burch has served as the president of CatholicVote for the past 25 years. During his tenure, he led the organization to endorse Trump in 2024—a significant shift compared to 2016 when Burch co-signed a letter to Catholics stating, "Donald Trump clearly lacks the qualifications necessary to serve as president of the United States."
At Tuesday's Senate confirmation hearing, the father of nine from Lombard spoke up for the President's policies and diplomatic efforts.
"Then how would you account for the stance of the U.S.? It appears completely at odds with what the Holy See has supported," Senator Jeanne Shaheen from New Hampshire, a Democrat, questioned.
Burch stated, 'I believe the collaboration with the Holy See could prove quite beneficial, however, the involved parties must recognize that our international assistance has limits; we cannot support each and every initiative.'
"If you had to identify three locations where US foreign aid hasn’t aligned with foreign policy, which ones would come to mind?" Shaheen queried.
"I have come across several accounts detailing how some of our funds were used, specifically for transgender mouse studies," stated Burch.
"Allow me to clarify, that statement is inaccurate," stated Shaheen.
Burch, who has previously aligned with conservative Catholics to criticize Pope Francis, stated that it is the Vatican itself that holds the power to mend diplomatic rifts.
Senator Rick Scott of Florida questioned, "What actions do you believe you could take as an ambassador to foster greater involvement from the Vatican leadership regarding hostages in Gaza?"
Burch stated that this matter holds great significance for Holy Father Pope Francis, even during his recent illness.
The I-Team contacted Burch's organization, CatholicVote, regarding his nomination and the hearings, however, they received no response.
Burch's committee hearing was being held as part of the process leading up to a full Senate vote for his confirmation.