First American-Born Pope Draws Praise From Trump, Across Political Lines
President Donald Trump and other political leaders from both sides congratulated the first American-born pope Thursday after the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who will lead under the name Pope Leo XIV.
“Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was just named Pope,” President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social. “It is such an honor to realize that he is the first American Pope. What excitement, and what a Great Honor for our Country. I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment!”
House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., posted on X: “Congratulations to Pope Leo XIV. May God bless the first American papacy in these historic days.”
Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., stressed the new pope was elected by the “largest and most diverse conclaves.”
“For many of us, the name Leo XIV happily brings to mind Leo XIII’s Rerum novarum which was a blessing for working people. And it is heartening that His Holiness continued the blessing that Pope Francis gave on Easter Sunday: ‘God loves everyone. Evil will not prevail,’” Pelosi, a former House speaker, posted on X. “In his own words, Pope Leo XIV said, “We can be a missionary church, a church that builds bridges, that is always open to receive everyone.” Let us thank God for His Holiness Pope Leo XIV and for this vision of unity. All of us hope and pray for the success of His Holiness and his vision for the Church.”
Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., celebrated the historic day.
“Exciting news for the Catholic Church and the world. Pope Leo XIV’s election is a historic moment that marks a new chapter in the church’s leadership,” Scott posted on X. “Let us pray for a spirit of unity as we look to the future.”
Pope Leo XIV is a native of Chicago, prompting reaction from Mayor Brandon Johnson, who posted: “Everything dope, including the Pope, comes from Chicago! Congratulations to the first American Pope Leo XIV! We hope to welcome you back home soon.”
Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., noted the historic role of the Catholic church and popes of the past.
“The influence of the Catholic Church is felt throughout the world,” Cassidy posted on X. “In modern times, it has included John Paul II’s advocacy for the freedom of Eastern Europe from Soviet Russia and every pope’s strong stand for life. We pray that Pope Leo XIV provides the same level of moral courage and clarity for the Catholic Church and beyond.”
The well-wishes came across party lines, as New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, posted on X: “Congratulations to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV. The prayers of millions of Catholics around the globe are with you to guide the church forward and be a strong champion for compassion and dignity.”
Rep. David Valadao, R-Calif., said he hopes the new pope’s leadership will “inspire unity and hope across the globe.”
Rep. Jeff Van Drew, R-N.J., said on X, “I am praying for Pope Leo XIV as he takes on the incredible responsibility of leading 1.4 billion Catholics around the world.”
