White Smoke Rises: American Cardinal Robert Prevost Becomes Pope Leo XIV Amid Mixed Reactions
The white smoke above the Vatican signaled a historic moment: on Thursday evening local time, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, 69, was elected the new leader of the Catholic Church, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. He is the first American ever to hold the papacy—and the first Pope Leo in over a century.
While many Catholics around the world celebrated the appointment, the reaction wasn’t universally positive. On social media, some MAGA-aligned figures and conservative influencers voiced strong opposition, accusing the new pontiff of being too progressive.
A Historic Election
Just two days after the conclave of cardinals began in the Sistine Chapel, the Vatican chimney emitted white smoke, signifying a successful vote. Moments later, Pope Leo XIV appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to greet the thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square.
“Peace be with you,” he began, echoing the words of the risen Christ. He continued with a message of humility and unity, referencing his predecessor:
“Let us keep in our ears the weak but always brave voice of Pope Francis… who blessed Rome and the world on Easter morning.”
Leo XIV also thanked his fellow cardinals and acknowledged his past service in Peru, where he served as Bishop of Chiclayo from 2014 to 2023.
The Significance of “Leo”
Experts note that a Pope’s choice of name often reflects their vision. Theologian Dennis Doyle explained to CBS that such decisions hint at the new leader’s intended direction. The name “Leo” harkens back to Pope Leo the Great, who famously persuaded Attila the Hun not to invade Rome and was known for theological reform.
CBS contributor Candida Moss suggested this may signal that Pope Leo XIV aims to stand firm against political oppression and focus on reform and intellectual leadership.
Who Is Pope Leo XIV?
Born in Chicago in 1955, Robert Prevost was raised in a devout Catholic family of French and Spanish heritage. From a young age, he felt a strong calling to the priesthood. His brother, John Prevost, said, “I think he knew it by first grade.”
Pope Leo pursued religious life with the Augustinian order, later studying in Rome and spending years on mission in Peru. He holds dual citizenship in the U.S. and Peru.
Former colleagues describe him as grounded, joyful, and deeply committed. “No matter how many problems he has, he maintains good humour,” said Rev. Fidel Purisaca Vigil. His former roommate, Rev. John Lyndon, recalled Leo’s love for cooking, music, and community: “He was somebody you would sit down with and just talk and laugh.”
A Progressive Vision
Leo XIV has long supported Pope Francis’s agenda, including environmental advocacy, climate action, and outreach to marginalized communities. He has backed the use of solar energy, endorsed electric vehicles, and emphasized the need for a “reciprocal relationship” with the planet.
He has also supported the inclusion of women in key Vatican roles and expressed openness to blessing same-sex couples, emphasizing that local cultures should guide bishops’ decisions.
Despite this progressive stance, Leo XIV was not considered a frontrunner. His brother revealed that he didn’t expect to be elected. “He didn’t believe it at all,” John Prevost said. “The attitude was, ‘There’s not going to be an American Pope.’”
Mixed Reactions in the U.S.
While President Donald Trump congratulated the new Pope on Truth Social, calling it a “great honor for our country,” reactions from Trump’s base were less enthusiastic.
Some MAGA-aligned commentators quickly voiced anger. Referring to Leo’s past criticisms of Trump and his defense of immigrants and George Floyd, they labeled him a “woke Marxist” and accused him of globalist leanings.
Far-right influencer Mike Cernovich claimed Leo XIV would support abortion and open borders. Others resurfaced old tweets criticizing Trump’s immigration policies, further fueling outrage. Conservative media personalities labeled him a “Never Trumper” and “liberal.”
Steve Bannon, former Trump strategist, had warned prior to the election that Prevost was “one of the most progressive” candidates on the shortlist.
What’s Next?
Pope Leo XIV enters the papacy at a time of deep division—both within the Catholic Church and the wider political world. Whether he can bridge gaps and lead with the strength of his namesake, Leo the Great, remains to be seen.
