Pope Leo XIV Highlights American Pride, Health Recovery and Civic Duty Following Midterm Elections

ABOARD THE PAPAL PLANE — Pope Leo XIV said on Friday that he was proud to be an American and to exercise his right to vote in the U.S. midterm elections, which resulted in Democrats gaining control of Congress and marking a rejection of President Donald Trump and his policies.

While traveling to Latin America, Pope Leo XIV met with journalists and chose not to comment on the election results. He referenced a recent Vatican statement confirming that he had cast an absentee ballot by mail in his hometown of Chicago.

According to the Vatican’s October 30 statement, Pope Leo XIV votes “whenever he is eligible,” reflecting his belief in civic participation. The statement emphasized his conviction that citizens have both the right and duty to engage in democratic processes.

The statement noted that the pope, who also holds Peruvian citizenship, had previously voted while residing in Peru. Pope Leo XIV added that he was unable to vote in Peru’s most recent election because absentee ballots “aren’t possible” there.

He remarked, “But I would have done it. It’s a good thing.” When asked by another reporter about the significance of his Chicago absentee ballot, Pope Leo XIV referred to the Vatican statement and affirmed, “I’m proud to be an American and to exercise the right.”

His decision to vote ignited debate, given that Pope Leo XIV leads the sovereign entity of the Holy See and adopted a new papal identity as the 266th successor to Saint Peter following his election on May 8, 2025.

U.S. federal law permits citizens, even those employed by foreign governments, to retain their citizenship. However, the Catholic Church regards him as Pope Leo XIV rather than Robert Prevost, the name under which he is registered to vote.

Pope Leo XIV occasionally adopts different personas for delicate matters. He exemplified this recently when hosting basketball players from his alma mater, Villanova University, and its rival, Notre Dame. He joked that “the pope” remains neutral, while “Prevost” — his given name — is a Villanova alumnus.

During his journey to Montevideo, Uruguay — the opening leg of a 12‑day, three‑nation tour — Pope Leo XIV, 71, shared these remarks just three weeks after undergoing surgery to remove a malignant tumor from his right lung.

“I’m very happy to be here myself,” Pope Leo XIV told reporters as he approached the back of the plane to greet them. When asked whether he felt as good as he looked, he replied with a chuckle, “Maybe better.”

He acknowledged that many were skeptical about his ability to travel, which will include stops in Argentina and Peru. This doubt arose after he disclosed on October 11 that a lung nodule was detected, followed by surgery two days later.

“I confess that from the first day, I had no doubt and was convinced that this trip had to go forward,” he said.

“Praise the Lord and thanks to wonderful medical assistance, I’m here today, I think, in fairly good shape.” He added that he has not yet had time to play tennis.

“Not yet, but I will,” he said.

Doctors confirmed that Pope Leo XIV was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer. They surgically removed the lower lobe of his right lung and, following additional tests, determined that no further treatment was necessary, clearing him to proceed with the journey.

The nodule was discovered during a routine examination conducted between his visit to France from September 25‑28 and the October 11 public announcement.

“Early detection is obviously the best way to go, and so regular checkups are a blessing,” Pope Leo XIV said.

He attributed his recovery to “trusting God, excellent doctors, skilled surgeons, and overall maintaining a healthy lifestyle.”

He reflected that his diagnosis instilled a deep commitment “to remain close to those who are sick” while also underscoring that healthcare should be a universal right — a theme he plans to highlight throughout his tour.

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