First American Pope Casts Ballot In US Midterm Elections

Pope Leo XIV has cast a mail-in ballot in the 2026 US midterm elections, becoming the first sitting pontiff known to vote in an American election, according to CNN.

The Vatican confirmed Friday that the Chicago-born pope submitted his ballot, describing participation in democratic processes as both a right and a civic responsibility.

British papal historian Michael Walsh told CNN that Leo may also be the first pope to participate in a secular democratic election.

Since becoming pontiff in May 2025, Leo has encouraged civic engagement. He has also disagreed with President Donald Trump’s administration over its approach to Iran and immigration, although tensions have eased in recent months.

Related Tweet:

Pope Leo XIV has submitted a mail-in ballot for the US midterms, becoming the first pope to vote in a US election and likely the first to vote in a secular democratic election. https://t.co/nD24g7WsUx https://t.co/0h0f7XA3Kd

— CNN Breaking News (@cnnbrk) October 30, 2026

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