White smoke rose above the Vatican on Thursday evening, signaling the election of a new pope. Robert Francis Prevost, a 69-year-old American, was chosen as the next leader of the Catholic Church. He will be known as Pope Leo XIV—the first pontiff to take the name Leo in over a century.
While many Catholics around the world celebrated the historic moment, the election also sparked backlash, particularly among MAGA supporters on social media.
The conclave of cardinals convened in the Sistine Chapel just two days before the announcement. When the smoke turned white, the crowd at St. Peter’s Square erupted in cheers as Prevost appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Speaking to CBS, theologian Dennis Doyle explained the significance of a pope’s chosen name, saying it reflects the pope’s intended direction. CBS contributor Candida Moss added that the name Leo harks back to Pope Leo the Great (440–461), who famously persuaded Attila the Hun not to sack Rome. She suggested the choice may hint at a similarly bold stance against global injustices, noting that Leo was also seen as an intellectual and theological reformer.
In his first address as pope, Leo XIV began with the words, “Peace be with you.” He called for unity, compassion, and hope, referencing both Christ and Pope Francis.
“This is the peace of the Risen Christ,” he said. “Let us keep in our ears the weak but always brave voice of Pope Francis… the Pope who blessed Rome and the world that day on the morning of Easter.”
He also thanked the cardinals for entrusting him with the papacy and offered special greetings to the Diocese of Chiclayo, Peru, where he served as bishop from 2014 to 2023.
The First American Pope
Pope Leo XIV is the first American ever to hold the papacy. Born in Chicago on September 14, 1955, Prevost was raised in the suburb of Dalton. According to his brother John, the future pope had known since first grade that he wanted to become a priest.
“He went straight from high school seminary to Augustinian College at Villanova,” John explained. “Even as the youngest, he was usually the one giving advice.”
Before his election, Leo XIV told Italian network RAI that he grew up in a deeply Catholic, immigrant family, with French and Spanish roots. He holds both American and Peruvian citizenship. After studying theology in Rome, he took his vows in 1981 and spent many years on mission in Peru.
Rev. Fidel Purisaca Vigil, from the Chiclayo diocese, described Leo as a grounded, joyful leader who remained calm under pressure. Former roommate Rev. John Lyndon recalled their time together in Peru, praising Leo’s down-to-earth personality, love for singing, and pizza-making skills.
“He was someone you could laugh and talk with,” Lyndon said. “Every parish wanted to celebrate his birthday—his presence left a lasting mark.”
Continuity and Reform
Pope Leo XIV has been an outspoken supporter of Pope Francis’ more progressive reforms. He supported blessings for same-sex couples and emphasized the need for bishops to interpret such guidance in light of local cultures. He’s also been vocal about climate change, advocating for practical steps like installing solar panels and embracing electric vehicles.
Previously, Leo served as the President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America and Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, overseeing the appointment of bishops worldwide.
Although the specific number of votes he received remains confidential, Leo was not considered a frontrunner. His brother shared a humorous moment before the conclave, when he encouraged Leo to watch The Conclave movie to prepare. Despite his doubts, Leo was elected.
“I didn’t believe it,” John said. “And neither did Rob—sorry, Pope Leo. We just didn’t think an American would be chosen.”
Mixed Reaction in the U.S.
President Donald Trump congratulated the newly elected pope on Truth Social, calling it “a great honor for our country” and expressing eagerness to meet him.
However, Trump supporters were far less enthusiastic. Critics labeled Leo XIV a “woke Marxist Pope,” accusing him of being too liberal. Online personalities like Mike Cernovich and Joe Mannarino dug up past statements where Leo had criticized anti-immigrant policies and expressed support for George Floyd.
“He’s a WOKE Never Trumper liberal. That’s why!” wrote MAGA influencer Vince Langman, citing a 2015 tweet in which Prevost criticized Trump’s rhetoric.
Even before the election, opposition had already formed. Steve Bannon, former Trump advisor, called Prevost “one of the most progressive” cardinals in the running and voiced concern about his potential papacy.
Despite the backlash, Pope Leo XIV’s election marks a historic and symbolic shift for the Catholic Church. As he begins his papacy, all eyes will be on how he navigates tradition, reform, and growing political scrutiny.
