Pope Leo XIV Votes in U.S. Election

Pope Leo XIV, originally from the United States, made history by becoming the first pope to vote in an American election. This was confirmed by the Vatican, which announced that the pope submitted a mail-in ballot in his birthplace, Chicago, before the November midterm elections. Known formerly as Cardinal Robert Prevost, Pope Leo XIV has consistently advocated for civic engagement.

The Vatican’s press office highlighted that the pope has always used his right to vote as a U.S. citizen whenever possible. During his time residing in Peru, he also participated in elections where eligible. The statement emphasized the pope’s belief in the importance of citizen participation in democratic processes.

The Chicago Sun-Times initially reported on the pope’s voting activity. They cited the chief of staff at the Will County clerk’s office, confirming that the pope, registered at an address in New Lenox, requested the mail-in ballot earlier this October.

Pope Leo XIV recently underwent surgery for lung cancer but is preparing for an upcoming visit to South America. His brother, John Prevost, visited Rome this week, joining parishioners from St. Jude’s in New Lenox, where Leo once gave a talk as a cardinal in 2024.

Speaking to his followers at the Vatican earlier this month, Pope Leo urged the faithful to abandon passivity about current events. He stressed the importance of engagement and taking a proactive stance in social issues, particularly aiding those impacted by social injustices. “We must listen with our hearts and become involved,” he stated during a general audience in St. Peter’s Square.

Voting records from the Illinois State Board of Elections reveal that since 2000, Pope Leo XIV has participated in five primary elections, opting for Democratic ballots twice and Republican ballots three times. Although these records do not disclose specific candidates, they show that he requested Democratic primary ballots in heavily Democratic Cook County in 2008 and 2010. After moving to more conservative Will County, he chose Republican ballots in 2012, 2014, and 2016. The records further indicate his consistent participation in general elections, excluding the 2020 and 2022 elections.