This week on Party Politics, co-hosts Brandon Rottinghaus and Jeronimo Cortina discuss a political fight between Donald Trump and Pope Leo XIV quickly became the most unexpected — and politically risky.The tension began after Pope Leo criticized how some political leaders use scripture to justify policies, emphasizing that the teachings of Jesus center on love, compassion, and caring for neighbors. The comments were widely interpreted as a rebuke of Trump-era rhetoric.Trump fired back, claiming the Pope would not have been elected without his presidency — escalating the dispute into a rare public clash between a U.S. president and the head of the Catholic Church.The stakes are significant. There are roughly 53 million Catholics in the United States — about 20% of the electorate. For many, the Pope holds enormous moral authority, making this feud more than just another political disagreement.Political observers say this is particularly risky for Trump, who has relied heavily on religious voters. While Trump has often clashed with political opponents, a fight with a global religious leader introduces new uncertainty.Adding fuel to the fire, an AI-generated image circulated online depicting Trump as a doctor — with imagery many interpreted as portraying him as Jesus. The image sparked backlash across religious communities and overshadowed other White House messaging efforts.Trump later said he did not intend to portray himself as Jesus, but the controversy had already dominated headlines. As the administration attempted to focus on affordability and economic messaging, the Trump-Pope clash took center stage.But the feud was only one part of a chaotic political week.Congress saw sudden shakeups as Eric Swalwell and Tony Gonzales announced resignations within hours of each other, raising questions about accountability and shifting the balance of power. Republicans now face an even tighter margin in the House, complicating legislative strategy.The week also raised broader questions: Do political scandals still matter? While some lawmakers step down, others remain in office despite investigations, highlighting how partisan dynamics continue to shape accountability.Meanwhile, tensions with Iran escalated, with reports of a naval blockade and the possibility of additional troop deployments. Oil prices climbed above $100 a barrel, pushing gas prices higher and creating potential political headwinds.Other moments also competed for attention, including a DoorDash-themed White House messaging push and an impromptu press conference involving Melania Trump that generated additional headlines.Back in Texas, rising gas prices prompted Sid Miller to call on Greg Abbott to temporarily suspend the motor fuel tax.Texas Democrats also face major fines following the August quorum break, adding another layer of political tension as the election cycle approaches.The outlook for the Texas House remains uncertain, with retirements and competitive districts raising the possibility of shifts in power.Meanwhile, the Texas Senate race continues to gain attention, highlighted by a major fundraising haul from James Talarico, potentially reshaping the political landscape.Despite the wide range of developments, the Trump-Pope feud stood out as the most unexpected story of the week — a clash between politics and religion that could carry lasting political consequences.NATIONAL TOPICS:House Representatives  Eric Swalwell & Tony Gonzales resign.Republicans are now down a vote in Congress.Do scandals still matter?Donald Trump's AI image sparks feud with Pope Leo XIV.Impact of President Trump's feud with the pope.DoorDash PR moment.Melania Trump's impromptu press conference.Iran update.TEXAS TOPICS:AG Commissioner Sid Miller calls for Governor Greg Abbott to temporarily pause the motor fuel tax.Texas Democrats hit with major fines in response to August quorum break.Outlook on the Texas House.Texas Senate race.James Talarico's campaign brings in major funds.In addition to YouTube, Party Politics airs every Friday night at 8:00 p.m. CT on Houston Public Media TV-8 (PBS), or listen every Friday at 7:30 p.m. CT on News 88.7. The audio podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts (or wherever you get your podcasts).