Chicago-born pope casts ballot in US midterm elections

Pope Leo XIV, who was born in Chicago, exercised his voting rights by casting a mail-in ballot in the US midterm elections that will determine control of Congress, making him the first pope to participate in an American electoral process.

The Vatican confirmed that the pontiff, who retains US citizenship, submitted his ballot through the absentee voting system. While the specific contents of his ballot remain private, sources close to the Holy See indicated the decision reflected the pope's interest in American political outcomes.

The development comes amid well-documented tensions between Pope Leo XIV and certain prominent US political figures, including former President Donald Trump. The pontiff has previously expressed criticism of Trump's policies and public statements, particularly regarding immigration and social welfare issues.

Vatican officials declined to provide further details about the pope's voting decision, citing the confidential nature of the electoral process. The move has generated significant interest among observers of Vatican affairs and American political commentators seeking to understand how the pontiff's long-standing ties to his native country influence his current role as head of the Catholic Church.

The midterm elections will determine which party controls both chambers of the US Congress for the remainder of the presidential term.