A bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers has introduced a resolution to congratulate Pope Leo XIV on his historic election as the first American-born pontiff. The resolution, led by Representative Blake Moore (R-UT) and co-sponsored by Representative Thomas Suozzi (D-NY), acknowledges Pope Leo’s election as a significant milestone for American Catholics and the global Catholic community.
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Dolton, Illinois, was elected as the 267th pope on May 8, 2025. His election marks the first time an American has ascended to the papacy, a development that has garnered widespread attention and praise from political leaders across the United States.
The resolution highlights Pope Leo’s upbringing in a patriotic American family and his commitment to faith, family, and service. It commends his work as a missionary and church leader in Peru, his academic background, and his fluency in five languages. The resolution also notes his choice of the name Leo, in honor of Pope Leo I, known for championing Catholic social teaching and the dignity of work.
In his first public address, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the importance of fidelity over popularity, urging clergy and laity to conform to Christ through truth, chastity, self-sacrifice, and Eucharistic love. He stated, “The credibility of the Church does not come from popularity, but from fidelity.”
President Donald Trump also extended his congratulations, describing the election as a “great honor” for the United States and expressing interest in meeting Pope Leo XIV.
