Pope Leo XIV Makes History by Voting in U.S. Election

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Pope Leo XIV has set a historical precedent by becoming the first pope to vote in a U.S. election. On Friday, the Vatican confirmed that the American-born pope cast a mail-in ballot in his native Chicago ahead of the upcoming midterm elections. This decision aligns with his commitment to civic engagement.

Known formerly as Cardinal Robert Prevost, the pope exercised his voting rights as an American citizen whenever possible, as stated by the Holy See press office. His participation in elections extends to his time in Peru, where he voted as an eligible resident.

“The Holy Father expresses his belief in the right and duty of citizens to participate in democratic processes,” the Vatican announcement emphasized. Pope Leo XIV continues to lead his traditional Wednesday General Audience in St. Peter’s Square.

The Chicago Sun-Times initially reported the pope’s voting action. According to the Will County clerk’s office, Pope Leo, registered at a New Lenox address, requested a mail-in ballot on October 3. His vote reflects his engagement in democratic practices despite recovering from recent lung cancer surgery.

Pope Leo plans to visit South America in the coming month. His brother, John Prevost, was in Rome recently, leading parishioners from St. Jude’s parish in New Lenox, Illinois. Pope Leo had given a talk there in 2024 when he was still a cardinal.

Earlier, during a general audience, the pope encouraged the faithful not to remain passive regarding current events. “We must not be unengaged spectators. We need to listen with our hearts, be challenged, and become involved,” he urged on September 2 at St. Peter’s Square, as reported by the Catholic News Service.

The pope spoke on the importance of bearing the burdens of those suffering from injustice and violence, echoing his lifelong advocacy for social justice. Records from the Illinois State Board of Elections reveal that Leo XIV has participated in five primary elections since 2000, requesting Democratic ballots in 2008 and 2010, and Republican ballots in 2012, 2014, and 2016.

Although his preferred candidates remain unknown, his involvement demonstrates his consistent commitment to political engagement. Registered in Democratic-leaning Cook County initially, he later registered in the more conservative Will County. Despite his active voting history, he did not vote in the 2020 and 2022 elections.