• Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago has been elected as Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born pope in Catholic Church history.
• The election occurred on the second day of the conclave after several rounds of voting, as indicated by the initial black smoke signals.
• Pope Leo XIV's election has sparked diverse reactions, ranging from celebration among American Catholics to concerns about U.S. influence within the Church.

The 2025 papal conclave concluded with the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV. This marks a historic moment as he becomes the first American-born individual to lead the world's 1.4 billion Catholics. The election process, shrouded in secrecy, involved 133 cardinal electors sequestered in the Sistine Chapel. Initial inconclusive votes were signaled by black smoke, before white smoke announced the final selection, prompting celebrations in St. Peter's Square and beyond. Reactions to the new Pope's election have been varied, reflecting diverse perspectives on the Church's future direction and the role of the United States within it.

• What: Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected as Pope Leo XIV.
• Who: Key individuals involved include Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost (now Pope Leo XIV), the 133 cardinal electors, and various figures offering reactions such as President Trump, VP Vance, and citizens around the world.
• When: The election took place on May 8, 2025, the second day of the conclave, after Pope Francis' death on April 21, 2025.
• Where: The conclave was held in the Sistine Chapel at the Vatican.

The election of Pope Leo XIV represents a significant moment in the history of the Catholic Church, marking the first time an American-born cardinal has ascended to the papacy. This decision challenges conventional wisdom, which suggested the United States already holds considerable global influence. His background, having spent significant portions of his life in Peru, also presents a unique perspective for the church. Initial reactions have been diverse, reflecting existing divisions and hopes for the future direction of the church under his leadership. His past criticisms of prominent political figures suggest a potential willingness to engage in social and political issues.

"I don’t like the message it sends to the world... I think it should have gone elsewhere because as an American living abroad I am ashamed of what’s going on at home right now."

"Everything dope, including the Pope, comes from Chicago! Congratulations to the first American Pope Leo XIV! We hope to welcome you back home soon"

"I call as my witness Christ the Lord, who will be my judge, that my vote is given to the one who before God I think should be elected."

The election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV ushers in a new era for the Catholic Church. As the first American-born pope, his leadership will be closely watched for its impact on the Church's relationship with the United States and the broader global community. His focus on peace, unity, and missionary activity, along with a history of social justice advocacy, sets the stage for a papacy that could address both internal challenges and global issues facing the Catholic faith.