In his first interview since leaving the White House, President Trump’s former chief strategist told Charlie Rose that the Catholic Church only supports the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) immigration policy because they won’t face the issues within their own walls — and need “illegal aliens” to fill seats.
“They have an economic interest in unlimited immigration, unlimited illegal immigration,” Bannon told Rose. “[Catholic leaders] need illegal aliens to fill the churches. That’s — it’s obvious on the face of it.”
Bannon went on to clarify that while he respects Church doctrine, “this is not about doctrine.”
“This is about the sovereignty of a nation,” Bannon said. “And in that regard, they’re just another guy with an opinion.”
Cardinal Dolan reportedly responded to Bannon’s criticisms on the Catholic Channel on SiriusXM radio, saying: “I don’t care to go into what I think is a preposterous and rather insulting statement that the only reason we bishops care for immigrants is for the economic and because we want to fill our churches and get more money,” Dolan said.“That’s just so insulting and ridiculous that it doesn’t merit a comment.”
Take a look at Bannon’s remarks below. Charlie Rose’s interview with Bannon on 60 Minutes will air on Sunday, Sept. 10 at 7 p.m. ET on CBS.
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