Barack and Michelle Obama share at least one notable bond with the newly minted Pope: all three hail from the vibrant city of Chicago. On May 8th, after a two-day conclave, Robert Francis Prevost was named Pope Leo XIV, a milestone achievement that also marks him as the first American Pope and the second from the Americas, succeeding the beloved Pope Francis, who passed away on April 11th at the age of 88.
In a prompt statement posted on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, Barack Obama conveyed their heartfelt congratulations. "Michelle and I extend our warmest wishes to our fellow Chicagoan, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV," he shared. "This marks a historic day for the United States, and we shall offer our prayers as he embarks on the sacred mission of leading the Catholic Church and serving as an inspiring figure for countless individuals, irrespective of their faith."
Chicago's celebration was not confined to the Obamas alone. Mayor Brandon Johnson also took to X, exclaiming, "Everything cool, even the Pope, originates from Chicago! Congratulations to Pope Leo XIV, the first American Pope! We eagerly anticipate your return home soon."
The selection of the new Pope came after the Vatican's traditional nine-day period of mourning. A total of 133 cardinals, all eligible by virtue of being under 80 years old, participated in the conclave, requiring a supermajority of at least two-thirds plus one vote for a decision.
The Vatican communicated the conclave's decision through a centuries-old tradition: white smoke billowing from the Sistine Chapel's chimney, signaling a successful election, as opposed to black smoke, which would have indicated a lack of consensus.
Shortly after his appointment, Pope Leo XIV emerged on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, addressing the gathering below in a speech translated from Italian. "God loves us all, and evil shall not prevail," he declared. "Fearless and united, with God by our side and among ourselves, we shall forge ahead." He continued, "As disciples of Christ, who precedes us, the world craves his light. Humanity needs him as a bridge to reach God and His love. You aid us in constructing bridges through dialogue and encounters, so we may all unite as one people, forever dwelling in peace."
