When 69-year-old Chicago native Robert Francis Prevost was elected as the next head of the Catholic Church, it was a watershed event in history: for the first time, an American had risen to the papacy. But it wasn’t just the election that drew international interest; he also chose the name Pope Leo XIV. To many observers, this was more than just a nod to tradition; it was a purposeful decision with symbolic significance.
Making History. For several days, the world watched the chimney above the Sistine Chapel, hoping to see the unmistakable plume of white smoke. On May 8, that time came. Smoke indicated that a decision had been made, and minutes later, the red velvet curtains of St. Peter’s Basilica opened to show the Church’s new leader.
Although Robert Prevost’s name had been mentioned among pope aspirants, he was not considered the front-runner. Several other cardinals were seen as front-runners but did not receive enough support. Finally, the conclave’s 133 cardinals chose Prevost as a compromise figure—someone capable of bridging gaps within a Church dealing with ideological tensions across continents.
Relationship With Trump. Pope Leo XIV’s American roots have heightened the excitement, particularly among the more than 50 million Catholics living in the United States. His election has even sparked conjecture that he may challenge Donald Trump for public attention, at least in some circles.
Former President Donald Trump did not spend time reacting to the momentous event. Taking to Truth Social, he praised Prevost and described it as a “great honor” for the US. “Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was recently appointed Pope…” “What excitement, and what a great honor for our country,” Trump said, adding that he wanted to see the next Pope soon.
Later, when meeting with the press, Trump revealed that the pope’s people had previously contacted him. “They’ve already called,” he explained. “We’ll see what happens.” While it is unclear how their relationship will play out, Prevost’s selection as a compromise candidate suggests that he has the potential to appeal to a broad swath of the Catholic community, including conservative Americans as well as progressive voices in Europe, Latin America and Asia.
Choosing the name Leo XIV conveys a clear statement. Every pope since the 16th century has adopted a new name upon their election, typically one that reflects the legacy or values of a previous pontiff. In this case, Pope Leo XIII, who commanded the Church from 1878 until 1903, is commonly regarded to have influenced the decision.
Leo XIII is remembered for his support of workers’ rights, particularly in his encyclical Rerum Novarum. The statement advocated for equitable treatment of workers, the ability to organize unions, and reasonable working conditions, while simultaneously preserving private property and entrepreneurship. He was dubbed “the worker’s pope” and is regarded as the originator of the Church’s modern social doctrines.
Father Vito Crincoli told ABC News that historically, Popes called Leo were powerful, compassionate leaders. Leo XIII saw dignity in work and refused to view individuals as machines. It would be fascinating to find out why Pope Leo XIV picked this name. Pope Leo XIV may share Pope Francis’ tone and aims, particularly his devotion to assisting the poor and speaking for the downtrodden. His first public speech focused on compassion, justice, and harmony, and he welcomed people of all faiths and ethnicities.
Nonetheless, there are hints that he is more conservative on several social matters. He has spoken out against same-sex marriage and is wary about expanding women’s roles in church leadership. Before becoming pope, Prevost served as Bishop of Chiclayo in Peru and previously led the Augustinian order worldwide. He is fluent in English, Spanish, and Italian and frequently teaches in all three languages.
Born and raised in Chicago, he studied mathematics at Villanova University, demonstrating an early interest in intellectual rigor even before entering the priesthood.