Pope Leo XIV has voted by mail in the US midterm elections.
The Chicago-born pope has submitted an Illinois mail-in ballot as Americans prepare to decide control of Congress.
Pope Leo XIV has submitted a mail-in ballot in Illinois for the US midterm elections, becoming the first pontiff to vote in an American election.
The Holy See Press Office confirmed his participation, saying he regards democratic participation as both a citizen’s right and duty. It also said he has voted whenever eligible as a US citizen, including during his years in Peru.
The Chicago-born pope became the first US citizen to lead the Catholic Church following his selection in May 2025.
Pope Leo XIV votes as Congress control hangs in balance
The midterm elections will determine which political party controls Congress. The outcome will also significantly shape the final years of President Donald Trump’s presidency.
Americans will vote nationwide on November 3, although early voting has already begun in most states. The pontiff submitted his Illinois ballot by mail ahead of the nationwide polling date.
Meanwhile, relations between the pope and the Trump administration have included clashes over immigration enforcement. They have also disagreed over the US-Israel war with Iran since he became pontiff.
In its statement on his vote, the Holy See Press Office emphasised his belief in citizens’ participation in democratic processes.
