Donald Trump has reacted to the historic news that Cardinal Robert Prevost has become the first American ever appointed as pope.
Historic moment as Cardinal Robert Prevost becomes Pope Leo XIV
In a groundbreaking development for the Catholic Church, 69-year-old Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago has been elected as the new pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV.
His election marks the first time in history that an American has been chosen to lead the Church.
This milestone has generated widespread excitement in the United States and around the globe.
Prevost’s extensive experience within the Church includes his role as Bishop of Chiclayo in Peru and his tenure as the general of the Order of Saint Augustine.
His reputation for both deep theological insight and pastoral care reportedly made him a standout candidate among the cardinals.
Donald Trump shares reaction after American cardinal is chosen to lead Catholic Church as pope
President Donald Trump, who previously joked about wanting to become the next pope himself, shared his reaction to the announcement on Truth Social.
Although he made light of the situation, he ultimately expressed pride and enthusiasm over the appointment of an American to the papacy.
Trump wrote: “Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was just named Pope. 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!”
The conclave reaches a decision after deliberation.
The election of Pope Leo XIV followed a traditional conclave held in Vatican City, where eligible cardinals gathered under great secrecy.
The Sistine Chapel served as the backdrop for the voting process, conducted beneath Michelangelo’s iconic ceiling.
According to Church protocol, only cardinals under the age of 80 can participate in the voting, with the number of papal electors typically limited to 120.
In this case, a reported 138 eligible cardinals cast their votes over the course of two days, with up to four rounds of voting each day.
The final decision was made when a two-thirds majority was reached.
White smoke from the Sistine Chapel chimney signaled that a new pope had been chosen.
Papal legacy shapes hopes for future leadership.
Pope Leo XIV succeeds Pope Francis, who passed away last month at the age of 88.
Francis’ tenure focused on progressive reforms and addressing global issues like poverty, climate change, and fostering interfaith dialogue.
Observers are already speculating about how Pope Leo XIV will build upon his predecessor’s legacy.
With his American background and global experience, many believe he can bridge cultural divides and offer a fresh perspective on the Church’s mission.
An unlikely chapter in Trump’s public persona unfolds.
Trump’s reaction to the election of a new pope adds another curious chapter to his larger-than-life public image.
Trump is known for his outsized personality and tendency to dominate the news cycle.
His satirical posts about wanting to be pope, complete with digitally altered images, stirred social media buzz.
While some viewed his jokes as inappropriate, others saw them as typical Trump theatrics.
Regardless, people generally well-received his congratulatory message, especially as it acknowledged the historic nature of the moment.
A new era for the Vatican and the world
The election of an American pope could signal a broader shift in the Church’s demographics and global priorities.
As Catholicism grows globally, choosing a leader with diverse background aims to unify the congregation.
As the world learns more about Pope Leo XIV’s vision, both faithful and secular observers will watch closely.
They will see if his leadership brings new energy and direction to the Catholic Church in the 21st century.