Pope Leo XIV mail-in ballot was submitted in Illinois, making him the first pope known to participate in a U.S. election, according to the Holy See Press Office.
The Vatican said the pontiff, born Robert Francis Prevost and the first American-born pope in the Church’s history, cast his vote by mail in Chicago. In a statement, the Holy See Press Office noted that he has consistently exercised his rights as a U.S. citizen when eligible and affirmed his belief in citizens’ duty to engage in democratic processes. The office also said he voted when eligible while residing in Peru.
The Will County clerk’s office confirmed that a request for a mail ballot was received on Oct. 3 under the name Robert Francis Prevost, and Vatican officials separately confirmed the ballot’s submission.
Among Illinois contests this cycle is the governor’s race, where Democratic incumbent J.B. Pritzker is seeking a third term against Republican Darren Bailey and independent Collin Corbett.
Pope Leo XIV mail-in ballot and Illinois voting rules
Illinois election officials explained that state law allows any registered voter to vote by mail without an excuse. The Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act, or UOCAVA, provides additional accommodations for military members and U.S. citizens living abroad.
Leo recently underwent surgery at Rome’s Agostino Gemelli University Hospital to remove a small tumor on his right lung, the Vatican announced on Oct. 13. Doctors said on Oct. 21 that no further treatment was needed, and the pope has since returned to regular duties.
