United States: In a moment described as monumental, US President Donald Trump hailed the ascension of Robert Francis Prevost—now Pope Leo XIV—as a “great honour” for the nation. The appointment of an American-born pontiff has sparked a chorus of celebration across political spheres.

“The emergence of an American to the Holy See is an immense privilege,” Trump remarked when questioned about the Vatican’s landmark decision.

Hailing from the heartbeat of the Midwest, Pope Leo XIV, 69, drew his first breath in Chicago. He later studied near Philadelphia and embarked on a spiritual mission in the highlands of Peru, a path that ultimately led him to the papacy, according to reports by BBC News.

With the United States ranking as the fourth-largest Catholic population globally, accolades and well-wishes flooded social platforms and press briefings after the announcement broke.

Vice-President JD Vance, who entered the Catholic faith in 2019, voiced heartfelt support for the new Pope’s mission. “Millions across the US—Catholics and other believers alike—will lift their voices in prayer for his grace-filled guidance of the Church,” Vance posted on X.

Former President Joe Biden, one of only two Catholic commanders-in-chief in American history, shared his joy: “Habemus papam—May divine favor accompany Pope Leo XIV of Illinois,” he posted, underscoring his personal reverence for the role.

Barack Obama, who carved his political roots in the Windy City, expressed admiration on X: “Michelle and I salute our fellow Chicagoan, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV. This is a moment of gravity for our nation, and we join countless others in prayer as he steps into a sacred global stewardship.”

Former President George W. Bush issued a written note, stating he and his wife, Laura, were “truly uplifted” by the event. “This occasion marks a pivotal chapter for American Catholics and believers across the earth. We extend our intercessions for Pope Leo XIV’s journey in healing, guiding, and exemplifying divine compassion.”

Mike Johnson, the Republican Speaker of the House, echoed similar sentiments. “The first American papacy dawns in days of great historical weight. May providence be with Pope Leo XIV,” he shared online.

Pope Leo XIV: Why the College of Cardinals chose the Chicago native and Augustinian to lead the church after Francis

Following the death of Pope Francis, the College of Cardinals elected #PopeLeoXIV , a Chicago-born Augustinian, as the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church.… pic.twitter.com/9wqqCPOu96

— The ICIR (@TheICIR) May 9, 2025

Secretary of State Marco Rubio, also of the Catholic tradition, emphasized the spiritual gravity of the moment. “This turning point breathes rejuvenated optimism into over a billion souls worldwide, aligning harmoniously with the 2025 Jubilee Year. It also signifies a deepening kinship between the US and the Vatican,” Rubio stated, as per BBC News.

Though Prevost, as cardinal, appeared to hold positions at times divergent from the Trump administration, including voicing concern over immigration policies, this hasn’t dulled the widespread recognition of his elevation. His X account, reportedly operated since 2011, contains reposts questioning policies such as the deportation of long-term US residents and critiques of Vance’s commentary on Fox News. One repost read: “JD Vance is mistaken: Christ never asks us to tier our affections for others,” mirroring a headline from the National Catholic Reporter.

Pope Leo XIV, a French, Italian, Spanish, and Black pope, had Louisiana Creole parents, Joseph Martínez from Haiti and Louise Baquié from New Orleans. Martínez was of mixed Afro-Haitian descent, while Baquié was a mixed-race Black Creole.

Source: @thattradgal

— حقّ AntecedentCauses🦋 (@BanxyFamily) May 9, 2025

While the Vatican has yet to authenticate the ownership of the account, it has nevertheless attracted attention.

Meanwhile, celebrations erupted in his hometown. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson paid homage with a touch of urban flair: “Everything dope, including the Pope, sprouts from Chicago! Salutations to Pope Leo XIV—we eagerly await your return.”

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker also joined the cascade of congratulatory messages. “Rooted in Chicago soil, Pope Leo XIV ushers in a fresh epoch. At this juncture of global unrest, his presence offers a clarion call for unity, mercy, and solace,” he noted on social media, according to the reports by BBC News.

This historic moment not only redefines the role of American influence in the ecclesiastical realm but also ushers in an era of spiritual reinvention and cross-cultural resonance within the Catholic Church.