Robert Prevost elected pope and takes name Leo XIV

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected pope on 8 May 2025 and chose the name Leo XIV. White smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel on the conclave's second day, and the new pope appeared on the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica.

Prevost was born in Chicago, served for many years in Peru and led the Vatican office responsible for bishops. He became the first pope born in the United States and also held Peruvian citizenship. National “first” labels should not erase the transnational experience that shaped his church career.

The conclave followed Pope Francis's death and funeral. Cardinals under eighty voted in secret until a candidate achieved the required two-thirds majority. The public announcement confirms election but does not disclose individual ballots or bargaining, which participants are bound to keep confidential.

Choosing the name Leo connected the new papacy with church social teaching, although later policy cannot be inferred from a name alone. His first address emphasized peace and continuity, not a completed governing programme.

Vatican records establish the election and identity. This item records accession to the papacy, separate from inauguration and later appointments. It avoids speculation about conclave factions and does not treat nationality as proof of alignment with any United States political party or government.

Prevost's election also made him the first Augustinian friar to become pope. The order's traditions may inform his spiritual formation, but they cannot be used as a template predicting each administrative or doctrinal choice.