White smoke over the Vatican signaled the election of a new pope: American Robert Francis Prevost, 69, now Pope Leo XIV — the first Pope Leo in over a century and the first American in history.
He greeted crowds in St. Peter’s Square with a message of peace and thanked his fellow cardinals. Leo, who holds dual American and Peruvian citizenship, previously served as bishop in Chiclayo, Peru, and as head of the Dicastery for Bishops.
Known for his humility and progressive views, Leo has supported climate action, women in church leadership, and blessing same-sex couples — positions that have drawn criticism from conservative circles, particularly MAGA supporters, who labeled him “woke” and “globalist.”
Despite backlash, President Trump congratulated Leo XIV, calling his election a great honor for the U.S. The new Pope’s vision, reflected in his chosen name, hints at a reformist papacy in the spirit of Leo the Great, known for standing up to political threats and advancing theological reform.