Pope Leo XIV Becomes First Pontiff to Vote in U.S. Election
Chicago-born Pope Leo XIV exercises civic duty through mail-in ballot for midterm elections.
1Historic Participation in Elections
Pope Leo XIV has officially become the first pontiff to participate in a United States general election. The Vatican confirmed that the Chicago-born leader submitted a mail-in ballot ahead of the upcoming midterm elections. This action highlights his long-standing commitment to civic engagement and the duty of citizens to participate in democratic processes.
2Official Vatican Confirmation
The Holy See press office stated that Leo, formerly known as Robert Prevost, exercised his voting rights as a U.S. citizen. The Vatican noted that he has consistently voted whenever eligible, including during his time residing in Peru. This public acknowledgment underscores the Pope's personal belief in the importance of democratic participation for all citizens.
3Registration and Ballot Details
The Chicago Sun-Times reported that the Pope is registered at an address in New Lenox, Illinois. Records from the Will County clerk’s office indicate that he requested a mail-in ballot on October 3. While the specific method of returning the ballot remains unclear, the process aligns with standard procedures for registered voters in the state.
4Primary Election Voting History
Illinois State Board of Elections records reveal that Robert Prevost has participated in five primary elections since 2000. During these primaries, he requested Democratic ballots twice and Republican ballots three times. These records confirm his active involvement in party selection processes, although they do not disclose the specific candidates he supported in any election.
5Shifting Party Preferences
The Pope's voting history shows a transition in party preference linked to his residency. While living in Cook County, he requested Democratic ballots in 2008 and 2010. After moving to the more conservative suburban Will County, he requested Republican primary ballots in 2012, 2014, and 2016, reflecting the specific requirements of Illinois primary election laws.
6General Election Participation Patterns
Beyond primary elections, records indicate that the Pope has submitted ballots in every general election since 2000, with the notable exceptions of 2020 and 2022. This consistent record demonstrates a decades-long pattern of civic involvement that predates his current role as the leader of the Catholic Church, maintaining his status as a registered voter.
7Local Connections and Context
The Pope maintains ties to the St. Jude’s parish in New Lenox, Illinois, where he gave a talk in 2024 while still a cardinal. His brother, John Prevost, was recently in Rome accompanying parishioners from this same community. These local connections provide context for his continued registration and voting activity within the Illinois electoral system.
8Implications of Civic Duty
By exercising his right to vote, Pope Leo XIV emphasizes the intersection of personal citizenship and global leadership. His actions serve as a practical demonstration of his stated belief in democratic duty. This unprecedented move by a sitting pontiff highlights the ongoing relevance of civic participation for individuals regardless of their professional or religious status.
Original article: Fortune | FORTUNE — Pope Leo XIV Becomes First Pontiff to Vote in U.S. Election