Pope Leo XIV has submitted a mail-in ballot for the United States midterm elections, breaking centuries of precedent and becoming the first pope to vote in a US election, as well as likely the first to participate in a secular democratic election.
The Vatican confirmed the development in a statement released on Friday, noting that the pontiff mailed his ballot from Chicago. According to the announcement, the Holy Father believes strongly in both the right and the fundamental civic duty of citizens to engage in democratic processes.
Michael Walsh, a British historian and author who has written extensively on the papacy, noted the unprecedented nature of the vote. He stated that he believes popes have never previously voted in a democratic, secular election.
Public registration records confirm that the pontiff maintains his US citizenship and remains a registered voter in New Lenox, a Chicago suburb where his brother, John, resides. The Chicago-born leader has actively participated in American politics in recent years, casting ballots in both Democratic and Republican primaries, as well as voting in the 2024 presidential election.
Since ascending to the papacy in May 2025, Pope Leo has consistently championed civic participation, encouraging individuals to make their voices heard regarding major geopolitical issues, including the joint US-Israel military campaign against Iran.
The pontiff’s political engagement coincides with a period of diplomatic friction with President Donald Trump’s administration, particularly concerning the conflict in Iran and domestic immigration enforcement. Earlier in the year, President Trump launched a series of sharp criticisms against the pope, though relations have since grown less contentious. Trump has frequently pointed out that the pope’s eldest brother, Louis, is a supporter of his administration.
Local election authorities, including the Will County Clerk’s Office, have been approached for further comment regarding the registration and voting records.
