World

Pope Leo XIV Votes by Mail in U.S. Midterm Elections

Leo XIV becomes the first Pope in history to vote in a U.S. election, submitting his ballot from Chicago.

1 November 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: Pope Leo XIV Votes by Mail in U.S. Midterm Elections — Archive photoPhoto: Edgar Beltrán , The Pillar · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

Pope Leo XIV has voted by mail in the midterm elections in the United States, as confirmed by the Press Office of the Holy See. Registered in New Lenox, Illinois, the Pontiff has exercised his voting rights as a U.S. citizen, ensuring that he has always done so whenever he had the opportunity.

The Pope's participation in these elections marks a historic milestone, as he is the first Pope to cast a vote in a U.S. electoral process. Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, has emphasized his conviction regarding the right and duty of citizens to engage in democratic processes.

The Vatican emphasized that this action is part of a long tradition of civic participation and aligns with the practice of exercising democratic rights. A statement highlighted that it is essential for every citizen to participate in the democratic life of their nation.

Furthermore, it was reported that the Pope's ballot was sent to Chicago, where voting will take place on November 3. It is noted that the Pope has previously expressed his commitment to exercising the right to vote.

Reports indicate that this is not the first time Leo XIV has exercised his voting rights, as he also participated in elections during his residency in Peru. The Holy See has underscored the importance of this act as a model for citizens regarding the necessity of engaging in democracy.

At 71 years old, Leo XIV has cast his vote amid political tensions in the United States, especially in a context where debates about the integrity of electoral processes are arising. His vote is seen as a symbol of alignment with the democratic values he promotes.

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