Â鶹´«Ã½

“Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost who was just named Pope. It is such an honor to realize that he is the first American Pope. What excitement, and what a GREAT HONOR for our Country. I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment!�

- President Donald Trump

“Along with the faithful of the Diocese of Richmond, I rejoice in thanksgiving at the announcement of our new pontiff, Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope to be elected. Like many, my initial reaction was one of joyful astonishment when I heard the cardinal protodeacon announce that Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a Chicago native, was elected as the 267th pope to lead our Church.�

- Bishop Barry C. Knestout of the Catholic Diocese of Richmond

“With profound gratitude to Almighty God, I join the universal Church in thanksgiving for Pope Leo XIV. As the Bishop of Rome and Successor of Saint Peter, our Holy Father is for the entire world the visible principle of Christian unity. I encourage everyone in our families, parishes and schools to offer prayers, sacrifices, and works of charity for Pope Leo XIV and his intentions.�

- Bishop Michael

F. Burbidge of the

Catholic Diocese of Arlington.

“It’s a good day for the Church and I look forward to continuing my Catholic journey under the leadership of Pope Leo XIV.�

- Sen. Tim Kaine,

D-Virginia

“What a joyous day! Our Catholic Church has a new Pope, and he is from America!!! As a leader of faith to millions around the world, may his papacy bring hope, unity, and renewed spiritual guidance. God Bless Pope Leo XIV, and God Bless the United States of America!�

- Rep. Jen Kiggans, R-2nd

“The election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, is a moment of great joy and possibility for Catholics around the world. I join all who hope he will continue Pope Francis’ legacy of reform, moral clarity, and compassion for those among us who need it most.�

- Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-11th

“We join Virginians and our Catholic brothers and sisters in celebrating the first American pope, Pope Leo XIV. May the Lord bless him and grant him wisdom as he begins his historic papacy!�

- Lt. Gov. Winsome

Earle-Sears, Republican

nominee for governor

“What a historic moment for the United States of America: the first-ever American Pope. Congratulations, Pope Leo XIV, on your election — and may your leadership help guide the world towards peace, compassion, and justice.�

- Abigail Spanberger,

Democratic nominee

for governor

“Joining each and every Catholic Virginian today in celebration of the election of Pope Leo XIV. Habemus Papem!�

- Attorney General

Jason Miyares

“Sending warm congratulations to Pope Leo XIV. As a Catholic, I know this is a proud and historic moment for the United States and the global Catholic community. Wishing him strength and grace as he begins his sacred mission of service and leadership for people of all faiths.�

- Former Del. Jay Jones, D-Norfolk, a candidate

for attorney general

“Michelle and I send our congratulations to a fellow Chicagoan, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV. This is a historic day for the United States, and we will pray for him as he begins the sacred work of leading the Catholic Church and setting an example for so many, regardless of faith.�

- Former President

Barack Obama