U.S. President Donald Trump issued a congratulatory statement Thursday in response to the historic election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV, marking the first time an American has ascended to the papacy in the Catholic Church’s two-thousand-year history.

“This is a great honor for the United States, and a moment of pride for Catholics everywhere,” President Trump said from the White House. “Pope Leo XIV’s election reflects the tremendous faith and leadership of the American people, and we look forward to his guidance in these important times.”

Though brief, the President’s remarks carry geopolitical and cultural weight, underscoring the global significance of the papal election. Cardinal Prevost, who hails from Chicago and has served as a key figure in Vatican leadership, was selected after the conclave of cardinals reached a consensus following the resignation of Pope Francis due to health concerns.

Trump, a Presbyterian by upbringing, has often emphasized his respect for religious traditions and leaders, particularly those who align with conservative social values. While he stopped short of commenting on Pope Leo XIV’s potential direction, he expressed confidence in the Church’s ability to move forward “with strength and faith.”

The White House is reportedly planning to send a delegation to the Vatican for the formal inauguration mass, with some speculation that Trump himself may attend.

The elevation of an American to the papacy is expected to influence U.S. Vatican relations and potentially shift the Church’s global focus toward issues of religious liberty, modernization, and geopolitical balance.