As the newly elected pope, Leo XIV has a notable political background, highlighted by his participation in both Democratic and Republican primaries, illustrating an intriguing aspect of his personal history while serving as a religious leader.
Pope Leo XIV's Political Engagement: Voting Record Revealed
Pope Leo XIV's Political Engagement: Voting Record Revealed
Pope Leo XIV's history of participating in U.S. elections showcases his bipartisan involvement over the years.
May 9, 2025, 7:17 p.m. ET
Recent investigations have unveiled that Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, has actively engaged in the electoral process in his home state of Illinois over the past two decades. Reports reveal that the pontiff has cast his vote in at least ten general elections, including the recent presidential election via absentee ballot in November. His voting history indicates a blend of bipartisan choice, as he participated in both Democratic primaries in 2008 and 2010, and later, in three Republican primaries from 2012 to 2016.
Elections records, made public by Will County in suburban Chicago, show consistent voting behavior from Pope Leo XIV, further detailed by findings from the Illinois State Board of Elections that confirm his engagement in Cook County elections between 2000 and 2010. This pattern illustrates how, despite the Democratic stronghold in Illinois, voters are not required to register with a party affiliation, allowing for greater flexibility—something Pope Leo has taken full advantage of.
The pontiff's deep ties to Chicago, where he was raised in a devoutly Catholic family, combined with his extensive service in Peru and Rome, reveal a multifaceted individual who combines his faith with an active interest in civic duty. As he steps into his role as Pope, President Leo XIV's past participation in the political landscape may offer new insights into his approach to governance within the Catholic Church.
Susan C. Beachy and Jonah Smith contributed reporting. Mitch Smith is a Chicago-based national correspondent for The Times, covering the Midwest and Great Plains.
Recent investigations have unveiled that Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, has actively engaged in the electoral process in his home state of Illinois over the past two decades. Reports reveal that the pontiff has cast his vote in at least ten general elections, including the recent presidential election via absentee ballot in November. His voting history indicates a blend of bipartisan choice, as he participated in both Democratic primaries in 2008 and 2010, and later, in three Republican primaries from 2012 to 2016.
Elections records, made public by Will County in suburban Chicago, show consistent voting behavior from Pope Leo XIV, further detailed by findings from the Illinois State Board of Elections that confirm his engagement in Cook County elections between 2000 and 2010. This pattern illustrates how, despite the Democratic stronghold in Illinois, voters are not required to register with a party affiliation, allowing for greater flexibility—something Pope Leo has taken full advantage of.
The pontiff's deep ties to Chicago, where he was raised in a devoutly Catholic family, combined with his extensive service in Peru and Rome, reveal a multifaceted individual who combines his faith with an active interest in civic duty. As he steps into his role as Pope, President Leo XIV's past participation in the political landscape may offer new insights into his approach to governance within the Catholic Church.
Susan C. Beachy and Jonah Smith contributed reporting. Mitch Smith is a Chicago-based national correspondent for The Times, covering the Midwest and Great Plains.
