“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.

Pope Leo XIV was chosen on the second day of the conclave by the College of Cardinals, with 133 electors casting their votes inside the Sistine Chapel. The decision was announced with the traditional white smoke rising from the chapel’s chimney, drawing cheers from thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square.

Born in Chicago in 1955, Pope Leo XIV has served the Church as a missionary, bishop, and most recently as the prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops in the Vatican. His dual heritage and experience in both North and South America make him a symbol of the Church’s growing global identity.

The election follows the death of Pope Francis. Pope Leo XIV will now lead the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics at a time of significant challenges and transformation, including ongoing reforms, secularization in the West, and vibrant Church growth in the Global South.

His first public appearance and papal blessing, Urbi et Orbi, was met with widespread enthusiasm and anticipation for what many see as a new era for the Vatican.