President Trump reacts after election of first U.S.-born pope in history
President Donald Trump has praised the historic election of the first U.S.-born pope, calling it a “Great Honor” for the country. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was chosen Pope Leo XIV, was elected on Thursday, May 8, marking a milestone as the first American to become pontiff.
“Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was just named Pope,” Trump wrote 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!”
ALSO READ: All you need to know about the new American pope
Trump had previously stated he had “no preference” regarding the selection of the new pope, though he drew criticism from some Catholics after sharing an AI-generated image of himself as pope on social media.
- FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Get the most important news on your social media feed
- FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK: Get the most important news on your social media feed
- FOLLOW US ON X: Get the most important news on your social media feed
Prevost, 69, was born in Chicago and studied at Villanova University before embarking on missionary work in Peru. On Thursday, he officially accepted his role as the new Bishop of Rome, taking leadership of the Catholic Church’s 1.4 billion members.
Pope Leo XIV succeeds Pope Francis, who passed away last month after more than a decade at the helm of the Church. Pope Francis was widely recognized for reshaping the Church’s image, notably by championing causes such as climate action.
READ MORE: DIASPORA LENS
