Pope Leo XIV Casts Historic Mail-In Ballot in U.S. Elections

ROME — In a significant first, Pope Leo XIV has participated in the U.S. midterm elections by casting a mail-in ballot, a move confirmed by the Vatican on Friday. Born in Chicago, Pope Leo XIV has made history as the initial leader of the Catholic Church to vote in a United States election.

This announcement aligns with ongoing debates in the U.S. about the legitimacy and security of mail-in voting. President Donald Trump has publicly expressed skepticism regarding the reliability of this voting method.

Images captured on Wednesday show Pope Leo XIV greeting individuals in St. Peter’s Square, underscoring the global influence of his actions. With the pontiff’s unique position as a spiritual leader with American roots, his participation in the electoral process highlights the reach and impact of democratic practices worldwide.