Pope Leo XIV has reportedly cast a mail-in ballot in the United States midterm elections, potentially becoming the first pope to vote in a secular democratic election.
Key Highlights
- Pope Leo XIV reportedly casts mail-in ballot in US midterm elections.
- Vatican confirms the pontiff submitted his ballot in Chicago.
- He is believed to be the first pope to vote in a democratic election while in office.
- The pope remains a US citizen, registered to vote in New Lenox, Illinois.
- His stance on Iran and immigration has put him at odds with the Trump administration.
The Vatican confirmed on Friday that the pontiff had submitted his ballot in Chicago, noting that he believes citizens have both the right and responsibility to participate in democratic processes.
The development marks a historic moment for the Catholic Church, as Leo XIV is believed to be the first pope to participate in a democratic election while serving as head of the global Catholic community.
Michael Walsh, a British historian and author who has written extensively on the papacy, said he was unaware of any previous pope who had voted in a democratic election.
Pope’s Voting Record
Records indicate that Leo XIV, who remains a United States citizen, is registered to vote in New Lenox, a suburb of Chicago where his brother, John, resides.
Born in Chicago, the pope reportedly participated in both Republican and Democratic primary elections in recent years and voted in the 2024 US presidential election before his election as pontiff in May 2025.
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Relationship With Trump Administration
Since becoming pope, Leo XIV has encouraged civic participation and urged people to speak out on important public issues, including the US-Israel war against Iran.
His position has occasionally put him at odds with the administration of US President Donald Trump, particularly over the conflict involving Iran and the government’s immigration policies.
Trump launched a series of public criticisms against the pontiff earlier in the year, although his comments have reportedly become less hostile in recent months.
The president has also frequently referred to the pope’s eldest brother, Louis, as a supporter of his political movement.
The Will County Clerk’s Office had been contacted for comments on the pope’s voting record, according to the report.
Leo XIV’s reported participation in the midterm elections highlights his continued connection to the United States despite his election to the papacy, while drawing attention to the role of civic engagement in democratic societies.
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