VATICAN CITY — October 30, 2026 — Pope Leo XIV has made American electoral history, becoming the first sitting pope known to cast a ballot in a U.S. election.
The Vatican confirmed Friday that the Chicago-born pontiff submitted a mail-in ballot in Illinois ahead of the November 3 midterm elections.
Born Robert Francis Prevost, Pope Leo XIV remains an American citizen and a registered voter in Illinois, despite leading the Roman Catholic Church from Vatican City.
According to the Chicago Sun-Times, the pope requested his ballot on October 3 through the Will County Clerk’s Office.
The Vatican subsequently confirmed that he had submitted his completed ballot.
A Historic First for the Papacy
The development represents an extraordinary moment in the history of the Catholic Church.
Leo XIV, elected pope in May 2025, is the first American-born pontiff. His participation in the 2026 elections now marks another historic first.
The Vatican explained that Pope Leo has consistently exercised his voting rights whenever eligible, including during his years living in Peru.
The Holy See also emphasized the pope’s belief that participation in democratic processes is both a right and a responsibility of citizens.
What Was on the Pope’s Ballot?
The Illinois ballot includes several important political contests, including the U.S. Senate race to replace retiring Senator Dick Durbin and the gubernatorial election in which Democratic Governor JB Pritzker is seeking another term.
Voters are also deciding congressional, judicial, and local races.
Although the pope has publicly addressed political and humanitarian issues, including immigration, armed conflicts, and human rights, his personal voting choices remain private.
Illinois election records indicate that Leo participated in previous American elections before becoming pope, including both Democratic and Republican primary elections.
A Ballot From the Vatican
The pope’s participation highlights an unusual connection between the Vatican and American democracy.
While serving as the spiritual leader of more than a billion Catholics worldwide, Leo XIV continues to exercise the civic rights associated with his American citizenship.
His vote also raises an interesting historical question about the relationship between religious leadership, citizenship, and democratic participation.
With the November 3 elections approaching, one of the world’s most recognizable religious leaders has already taken part in the American electoral process — without leaving the Vatican.
Sources: Associated Press; Chicago Sun-Times; CBS News
By NJ RADAR Team