Paul Ryan

A television outlet once devoted to expressions of Catholic conservative catechesis and apologetics has grown into a truly influential media empire, well connected to Republican politicians, the Trump White House, wealthy conservative Catholic donors and anti-Pope Francis forces. 

Distinctly Catholic: As Republicans start to position themselves as being independent of President Donald Trump, they need to make a public showing that they are sorry about being wrong to support him in the first place.

Michael Sean Winters rounds up political news and commentary: Franklin Graham defends Trump; New Age guru considers presidency run; Paul Ryan's legacy; the world's worst boss.

Michael Sean Winters rounds up political news and commentary: A symposium on Catholic political thought; Republicans wrestle with immigration issue; how the pro-life movement turns off people it should attract

During the second week of the revived Poor People's Campaign, more than 100 people participated in a Washington rally, demanding early voting, same-day registration and other safeguards to protect democracy against "surgical racism."

Distinctly Catholic: As young people leave religion, the right is more likely to be guilty of turning them away by hypocrisy, the left more by failing to come to religion's defense.

Morning Briefing: A resolution to Chaplaingate, more problems for EPA administrator Scott Pruitt and President Donald Trump addresses the National Rifle Association today

In a story with multiple updates late Thursday (May 3) afternoon, Jesuit Fr. Pat Conroy rescinded his resignation as chaplain to the U.S. House of Representatives, House Speaker Paul Ryan changed his mind and decided to keep him in the position, and House Democratic Caucus Chairman Joe Crowley of New York called for an inquiry into the initial dismissal.