American Catholics are showing strong support for their newly elected spiritual leader, Pope Leo XIV, just one month after his election to the papacy. A new survey conducted by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that nearly two-thirds of U.S. Catholics hold either a “very” or “somewhat” favorable opinion of the Chicago-born pontiff.
Only a small portion—less than one in 10—reported having an unfavorable view of Pope Leo XIV. Meanwhile, about three in 10 said they didn’t know enough about him yet to form an opinion. The pope’s recent address to the United States, his first since ascending to the role, appears to have resonated positively among many faithful.
Beyond the Catholic community, the new pope is earning mixed but generally positive reviews among the broader American public. About half of Democrats said they view Pope Leo favorably, compared to roughly four in 10 Republicans and independents. Republicans, however, were more likely to reserve judgment, with approximately half saying they did not yet know enough about the pontiff to offer an opinion—versus about four in 10 Democrats.
Importantly, unfavorable views of the pope remain low across political lines, with just one in 10 Republicans and Democrats expressing a negative opinion. This rare moment of unity could reflect a shared respect for the office or the pope’s early efforts to present a balanced and pastoral tone.
Pope Leo’s rise has generated new energy within American Catholicism, with many hoping he will uphold church traditions while navigating today’s moral and cultural challenges. His Midwestern roots and plainspoken demeanor may be contributing to his early popularity, particularly among Catholics seeking clarity and conviction in spiritual leadership.
Pope Leo XIV’s background as a Chicago native and longtime servant in the American Catholic Church has likely contributed to his warm reception in the U.S. Faithful are hopeful his understanding of American cultural and political dynamics will help him address key issues facing the Church, including declining attendance, moral clarity, and the defense of traditional values in an increasingly secular world.
