Aug 5
Brian Burch, Co-Founder of Anti-Queer CatholicVote, Confirmed as U.S. Ambassador to the Vatican
READ TIME: 3 MIN.
In a closely watched decision, the U.S. Senate voted 49-44 along party lines on August 2 to confirm Brian Burch, co-founder and former president of CatholicVote, as the new U.S. ambassador to the Holy See, also known as the Vatican . The confirmation marks a significant diplomatic appointment in the wake of the historic election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born pope, who, like Burch, hails from Chicago .
The ambassadorial role is crucial in representing U.S. interests to the Vatican—a city-state wielding considerable influence on global humanitarian and moral issues. Burch succeeds former ambassador Joe Donnelly, who stepped down in July 2024 .
Burch’s leadership at CatholicVote has been a focal point for concern among LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations. While CatholicVote describes itself as a political advocacy group supporting “faithful citizenship,” it has consistently opposed marriage equality and legal protections for LGBTQ+ people, including transgender rights and inclusive education policies . Under Burch’s direction, CatholicVote endorsed legislative efforts that critics say would permit discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals on religious grounds .
LGBTQ+ leaders have noted that Burch’s confirmation comes amid ongoing debates over the rights of LGBTQ+ people within both the church and society at large. “We’re deeply concerned that this appointment sends a message that the U.S. is doubling down on policies and advocacy that undermine the dignity and rights of LGBTQ+ people, both at home and abroad,” said an advocacy group spokesperson .
As ambassador, Burch will be responsible for communicating U.S. policy positions on a wide range of issues, including human rights, humanitarian aid, and international relations. The Vatican, with diplomatic ties to 183 countries, plays a pivotal role in addressing global crises—from conflict resolution to health care and education . Advocates worry that Burch’s history may influence how U.S. positions on LGBTQ+ rights are conveyed at the Vatican and in broader international fora.
In his public statement following confirmation, Burch expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “I am profoundly grateful to President Trump and the United States Senate for this opportunity to serve as the next U.S. ambassador to the Holy See. As a proud Catholic American, I look forward to representing President Trump, Vice President Vance, and Secretary Rubio in this important diplomatic post” . He called for “the prayers of all Americans, especially my fellow Catholics, that I may serve honorably and faithfully in the noble adventure ahead.”
LGBTQ+ groups have called on the Biden administration and Congress to ensure that U.S. diplomatic missions prioritize human rights, including protections for LGBTQ+ people, regardless of the personal views of appointees. “Our hope is that Ambassador Burch’s tenure will reflect the values of equality and human dignity that are foundational to American diplomacy,” an LGBTQ+ rights coalition said in a joint statement .
Burch’s confirmation underscores the ongoing debates at the intersection of faith, politics, and LGBTQ+ rights. The Vatican’s approach to LGBTQ+ issues has evolved over the years, with Pope Francis signaling a more pastoral tone without endorsing doctrinal change . However, CatholicVote and similar groups have often resisted such shifts, advocating for traditionalist positions.
As Burch assumes his post, LGBTQ+ communities and allies will be closely monitoring his actions and statements, especially as they pertain to international efforts to uphold and expand the rights of LGBTQ+ people. The ambassadorship will test the balance between representing the U.S. government’s stated commitment to human rights and the personal convictions of its diplomatic appointees.
For now, the confirmation sets the stage for an ambassadorship likely to be scrutinized as much for its policies as for its symbolism in the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ equality on the world stage.
