Is Robert Prevost Liberal Or Conservative? Exploring Pope Leo XIV's Political Leanings

In a historic first for the Catholic Church, an American has been elected pope. Cardinal Robert Prevost, a Chicago native, was chosen by the conclave on Thursday to lead the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics, taking the name Leo XIV. The new pope holds a mix of both liberal and conservative positions, as reported by CBS.

Prevost, 69, is seen as a centrist figure who bridges divides within the church. Like Pope Francis, he has supported marginalized groups and spoken up for migrants and the poor, as reported CBS. But on matters of doctrine, he maintains more traditional positions, such as his opposition to the ordination of women as deacons, a stance that aligns with conservative teachings.

Also Read: New Pope Robert Prevost Takes Name 'Leo XIV': What Is Its Significance?

Before becoming pope, Prevost led the Dicastery for Bishops, a key Vatican office responsible for appointing bishops around the world. He also holds dual citizenship in the US and Peru, where he served for many years.

The election of an American pope is a big change for the Catholic Church. In 2,000 years, no pope had ever come from the United States, until now.

US President Donald Trump congratulated Pope Leo XIV on Truth Social, calling his election a great honor for the country. He stated, "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!"

After the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 133 cardinals met in a secret conclave in Rome to elect a new pope. On Thursday, white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel and bells rang at St. Peter’s Basilica, signaling a successful vote after at least four ballots.

Over an hour later, the new pope appeared on the balcony, dressed in papal vestments. He mentioned Pope Francis twice, pledging to continue his mission. "We have to be a church that works together to build bridges and to keep our arms open, like this very piazza, welcoming," Pope Leo said in Italian. He also gave the Urbi et Orbi blessing, which means “to the city and the world.”

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