Pope Leo XIV Elected as First American Pontiff Amid Praise and Backlash
On Thursday evening, Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old American, was elected Pope and took the name Leo XIV, the first pope to do so in over a century. Crowds in St. Peter’s Square cheered as white smoke signaled his election. A Chicago native and former bishop in Peru, Leo XIV is known for his humble style, support of Pope Francis’s reforms, and progressive views on immigration and climate change.
While many Catholics celebrated, MAGA supporters lashed out on social media, accusing the new pope of being too liberal and “woke.” Critics pointed to his past comments critical of Trump-era policies and his support for marginalized communities. Still, Pope Leo has received praise for his down-to-earth nature and deep commitment to the Church.
President Trump congratulated him warmly, calling his election a “great honor” for America.
