Pope Leo XIV Makes History As First Pope To Vote In US Election

Pope Leo XIV has made history by becoming the first reigning Pope to cast a ballot in a United States election.

The Holy See press office confirmed the development, stating that the pontiff, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, exercised his right to vote as an American citizen in line with his lifelong civic participation.

“The Holy Father expresses his belief in the right and the duty of citizens to participate in democratic processes,” the Vatican said in an official statement.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, Pope Leo XIV holds dual American and Peruvian citizenship. His ballot is expected to cover federal, state, and local contests, including the Senate, gubernatorial, and House of Representatives races in Illinois.

Voting records show that Prevost actively participated in US elections prior to his election as head of the Catholic Church in May 2025, including voting in the 2024 presidential election and several Illinois primary contests over two decades.

The historic vote comes as the pontiff resumes full duties at the Vatican following an October hospital release, ahead of a scheduled pastoral visit to South America next month.