Pope Leo XIV to vote by mail in Illinois midterms

Pope Leo XIV has submitted a mail-in ballot for the 2026 midterm elections in Illinois, the Holy See Press Office announced Oct. 30. The Vatican stated the pope is exercising his right to vote as a United States citizen.

Kim Fladhammer, chief of staff for the Will County clerk’s office, confirmed that Robert Francis Prevost, the pope's name prior to his election, is on the list of individuals who requested a mail ballot. Records indicate the request was placed on Oct. 3. The pope is a citizen of both the United States and Peru and is registered to vote at an address in New Lenox, Illinois.

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops issued a statement noting that the pope is setting an example of civic responsibility. The bishops stated they encourage Catholics to inform their consciences and uphold human dignity when preparing to vote.

If he casts his ballot, the pope will be the first pontiff to vote in a United States election. Voting records show he has participated in several previous elections, including Democratic primaries in 2008 and 2010, Republican primaries in 2012, 2014, and 2016, and general elections in 2012, 2014, 2018, and 2024.