Vatican confirms Pope Leo XIV cast ballot in 2026 midterms
The U.S.-born pontiff mailed his ballot from Chicago, a practice he has maintained during his years in Peru.
By Beatriz Soto ·
The Vatican confirmed on Thursday that Pope Leo XIV voted in the 2026 U.S. midterm elections. The Holy See verified through its website that the pontiff exercised his right to vote as a U.S. citizen. He mailed his ballot from Chicago using registered mail.
The vote occurred during the final phase of the midterms. These elections will replace all members of the House of Representatives. More than one-third of the Senate seats are also up for grabs. Voters in 36 states will choose new governors.
Leo XIV has maintained this civic practice for years. The Vatican stated that he voted consistently in the United States and during his time in Peru. He participated in every election where he met the eligibility requirements.
The Holy See emphasized that the pope views democratic participation as a fundamental right and duty. This stance applies to all citizens, regardless of their office.
U.S. election authorities remind eligible overseas citizens and deployed military personnel that they can submit absentee ballots. Voters must meet the deadlines and requirements set by official regulations for overseas voting.
