The Chicago-born pontiff submitted his mail-in ballot from Italy, becoming the first pope ever to vote in an American election, according to reports.
Pope Leo XIV has cast his ballot in the upcoming U.S. midterm elections by mail from the Vatican, making history as the first pontiff to vote in an American election.
The 71-year-old pope, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, was elected leader of the Roman Catholic Church in May 2025 following the death of Pope Francis. He has not returned to the United States since becoming head of the Church.
The Chicago Sun-Times was the first to report that Leo had registered for a mail-in ballot through the Will County Clerk’s Office in Illinois. His registration lists an address in New Lenox, a southwestern suburb of Chicago.
Kim Fladhammer, chief of staff at the county clerk’s office, confirmed the registration to the newspaper.
“Robert Francis Prevost is on the list of individuals who requested a vote by mail ballot for the upcoming election,” she said.
Records show that Prevost has voted in previous U.S. presidential elections, as well as in both Republican and Democratic primaries. However, he did not participate in Illinois’ primary elections in March 2026.
Midterm Elections Carry National Political Significance
The upcoming midterm elections are being closely watched as a measure of public opinion on President Donald Trump’s administration and its policies.
Trump has urged conservative voters to turn out in large numbers, campaigning as though his own political future were directly on the ballot. The elections will determine control of Congress, with all 435 seats in the House of Representatives and 35 Senate seats up for election.
The results could significantly shape the remainder of Trump’s presidency, influencing congressional investigations, legislative priorities and the administration’s ability to advance its agenda.
Pope Prepares for South American Tour
Despite the recent controversy, Pope Leo XIV is continuing his international schedule.
He is expected to begin a 12-day visit to Argentina, Uruguay and Peru on November 6, three days after Americans head to the polls.
His participation in the U.S. election from the Vatican adds an unusual personal dimension to an election that is drawing attention well beyond America’s borders.
