New details have emerged from documents released by the U.S. Department of Justice regarding the Epstein scandal, highlighting the former White House advisor Steve Bannon's discussions with financier Jeffrey Epstein about ways to counter Pope Francis. The communications from 2019 indicate Bannon's intentions to 'take down' the Pontiff, whom he perceived as an adversary to his 'sovereigntist' vision. In an email dated June 2019, Bannon expressed, 'We will take down Francis. The Clintons, Xi, Francis, the EU: go brother.' This significant communication reveals an alarming collaboration that transgresses the political into the religious realm.

Bannon has been openly critical of Pope Francis, viewing his stances, particularly on nationalism and migration, as incompatible with his own views that align more closely with the Trump administration's policies. The Pope has positioned himself as a counterbalance to Trumpian worldviews, advocating for migrant rights and criticizing nationalism throughout his papacy. In this context, Bannon's eagerness to partner with Epstein, notorious for his unethical dealings, signifies his determination to challenge the Papacy and its influence.

This revelation not only raises questions regarding Bannon's motivations and the ethics of his political engagements but also highlights the intersection of religion and politics in contemporary discourse. The implications of such interactions extend beyond mere political strategy, indicating a deeper ideological battle over the direction of global leadership and moral authority in the face of rising nationalism and populism. As these documents shed light on Bannon's maneuvers, they provoke further scrutiny over the evolving relationship between political figures and influential financiers in shaping public narratives.