Pope Leo proud he voted in U.S. election because citizens shape democracy
A vote from Chicago
The Vatican said Leo voted by mail in his native Chicago. The Holy See had previously said he cast ballots whenever he was eligible as a U.S. citizen.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Leo said he was proud to be American and to use his voting right. He did not comment on the midterm outcome, when Democrats gained control of Congress.
A record of participation
The Vatican described civic participation as both a right and a duty. It said Leo had voted when eligible during his years as a missionary and bishop in Peru, where he holds citizenship alongside his U.S. citizenship.
Travel after surgery
Leo began a three-country, 12-day tour about three weeks after surgery to remove a cancerous growth from his right lung. Doctors cleared him to travel on Oct. 26, two weeks after the operation.
Doctors removed the lower lobe of his right lung on Oct. 13, and he left the hospital on Oct. 17. Leo credited his recovery to medical care, faith and a healthy lifestyle, and said he felt in good shape.
Key points
- Pope Leo XIV said he voted by mail in Chicago as a U.S. citizen.
- He declined to discuss midterm results, when Democrats took control of Congress.
- The Vatican said Leo voted when eligible during his years in Peru.
- He began a 12-day, three-country trip after surgery for a malignant lung tumor.