The smoke above the Vatican turned **white** on Thursday evening local time, signaling that a new pope had been chosen by the College of Cardinals in a conclave held inside the Sistine Chapel. Shortly afterward, 69-year-old **Robert Francis Prevost** stepped onto the balcony of **St. Peter’s Basilica** to greet the cheering crowds in St. Peter’s Square. He has taken the name **Pope Leo XIV**, the first pontiff to use that name in more than a century.
Prevost, an American born in Chicago and a long-time missionary and church leader, becomes the **first pope from the United States** in the Catholic Church’s 2,000-year history. His election as the 267th bishop of Rome was confirmed after white smoke billowed from the chapel’s chimney on the second day of voting. Tens of thousands of faithful and pilgrims filled St. Peter’s Square to witness the moment and listen as Pope Leo XIV offered his first greeting, urging unity and peace.
While Catholics around the world have celebrated the historic selection, **some critics—particularly online—have reacted negatively**. On social media, certain segments of the political right, including MAGA-aligned commentators, have criticized Leo XIV, portraying him as politically opposed to their views. Some have pointed to his past social media posts and speculated that his leadership could signal ideological directions they oppose, leading to sharp commentary from conservative influencers.
For many believers, however, Pope Leo XIV’s election represents a moment of joy and hope for the Church’s future, as he steps into one of the most spiritually and culturally significant roles in the world.
