Pope Leo makes history with US midterm vote

Pope Leo XIV, the Catholic Church's first US-born pontiff, has made history by voting in the United States midterm elections, marking the first known instance of a pope participating in a political election. The Vatican confirmed that the Chicago-born pontiff exercised his right to vote as a United States citizen, in accordance with his eligibility, and believes in the right and duty of citizens to engage in democratic processes.

Pope Leo XIV's decision to vote comes after a contentious relationship with US President Donald Trump, who frequently clashed with the pontiff over issues such as immigration crackdowns and foreign policy. Despite the tensions, the pope has not been afraid of Trump and has called for peaceful resolutions to conflicts, urging people to engage with authorities to promote peace.

Pope Leo XIV's voting history includes primary elections in both Democratic and Republican parties, as well as in his years spent as a missionary in Peru. During his time in Peru, he also exercised his right to vote whenever he was eligible to do so. The Holy Father's decision to participate in the US midterm elections highlights the importance of civic engagement and the role of religious leaders in promoting democratic values.