Historic Election: U.S. Cardinal Robert Prevost Becomes Pope Leo XIV

Cardinal Robert Prevost from Chicago has been elected as the new pope, taking the name Leo XIV. A surprise choice, Prevost is the first U.S. citizen to lead the Catholic Church. Known for his missionary work in Peru, Prevost succeeds Pope Francis and emphasizes continuity with Francis' reforms.

Cardinal Robert Prevost, a Chicago native, has made history by becoming the first U.S. pope, taking on the papal name Leo XIV. The election, announced by white smoke at the Vatican, marks a significant moment for the 1.4 billion-member Catholic Church.

Pope Leo XIV addressed the crowd in Italy, expressing gratitude and calling for peace. Known for his missionary work in Peru, he was not a frontrunner for the papacy. His election has evoked strong reactions, both celebratory and critical, with some expressing concerns over his past handling of clerical abuse cases.

The new pope plans to continue Pope Francis' reforms, focusing on social justice and openness within the Church. This unexpected choice signals a potentially transformative era, as seen by reactions from both the U.S. and international leaders, including congratulatory messages from President Trump and Peru's President Boluarte.