Today, the U.S. Senate passed a resolution by unanimous consent to congratulate Pope Leo XIV on his election as the 267th Bishop of Rome. This marks a historic moment as he becomes the first pope born in the United States.
Senator Eric Schmitt (R-MO), who is noted as the first Catholic Republican elected to the U.S. Senate from Missouri, led this initiative. He expressed pride in witnessing an American and fellow Midwesterner reach such a significant position within the Catholic Church. “As a dedicated Catholic, I am honored to lead the U.S. Senate in officially congratulating Pope Leo XIV on his election to serve as the next pope,” stated Senator Schmitt. He further invited others to join him in prayer for Pope Leo XIV’s success and that of the church.
The resolution was supported by several senators across party lines, including Senators Durbin (D-IL), Collins (R-ME), Kaine (D-VA), Lujan (D-NM), Risch (R-ID), Padilla (D-CA), Ricketts (R-NE), Rounds (R-SD), Sullivan (R-AK), Welch (D-VT), and Cortez Masto (D-NV).
