Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the Archbishop of New York, has been included on several lists predicting the next Pope, making him a potential candidate to become the first American Pope if chosen. The identity of the next Pope remains a mystery, shrouded in secrecy as cardinals convene to elect the successor to Pope Francis. Various other names have also been floated as potential replacements for Pope Francis, with Cardinal Luis Tagle initially leading the betting odds in the wake of the Pope's demise. However, by April 21st, Pietro Parolin emerged as the frontrunner on Polymarket. Notably, Dolan did not make the cut.
On April 21, 2025, Pope Francis passed away, prompting The New York Post to report that Dolan was "among the top church officials being considered to replace the late Pope Francis." At 75 years old, Dolan is known for his charisma, conservative values, and unwavering commitment to the teachings of the Catholic Church, according to The Post.
Moreover, USA Today mentioned Cardinal Joseph Tobin, 72, the Archbishop of Newark, New Jersey, and Cardinal Raymond Burke, 76, the former head of the Archdiocese of St. Louis, as other possible American contenders for the papal throne. Dolan fulfills all the criteria to become Pope. According to Associated Press, "Any baptized Catholic male is eligible, but since 1378, only cardinals have been selected. The winner must secure at least two-thirds of the votes from cardinals under 80 years old, who are eligible to participate." Dolan is a cardinal, under 80 (though Popes can exceed that age), and a baptized Catholic male.
The new Pope will be elected in a conclave of cardinals, who cast their votes in secrecy, as outlined by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. Dolan's bio reveals that he was appointed Archbishop of New York by Pope Benedict XVI on February 23, 2009, and previously served as Archbishop of Milwaukee, appointed by Pope Saint John Paul II on June 25, 2002. He also chaired Catholic Relief Services and sits on the Board of Trustees of The Catholic University of America. Notably, Dolan completed a three-year term as president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops in November 2013.
