The upcoming papal conclave marks a pivotal moment for the Catholic Church, with ten U.S. Cardinals poised to vote, six of whom are new supporters of Pope Francis' progressive agenda.
U.S. Cardinals Gear Up for Historic Papal Conclave
U.S. Cardinals Gear Up for Historic Papal Conclave
Ten U.S. Cardinals Prepare to Elect New Pope Amid Shifting Church Dynamics
May 7, 2025, 10:00 a.m. ET
As the world turns its attention to Rome, the College of Cardinals is preparing for the imminent conclave, with 10 American cardinals among the electors who will be casting their votes for the next pope. This group of cardinal electors is part of the 17 overall U.S. Cardinals; the other seven are beyond the age limit of 80, barring them from participation.
Significantly, six of the cardinals eligible to vote were appointed by Pope Francis, reflecting a concerted effort to infuse the church leadership with figures who underscore his priorities, particularly surrounding immigration, environmentalism, and social justice policies.
Among them is Cardinal Blase J. Cupich of Chicago, age 76, who previously held positions in South Dakota and Spokane, Washington. His elevation marks one of Pope Francis' earliest leadership changes aimed at bolstering support for immigrants within the church, tasked with shepherding an archdiocese of approximately two million Catholics.
Cardinal Robert W. McElroy, from Washington and aged 71, has become well-known for his advocacy for marginalized groups including migrants, women, and the LGBTQ community. He has voiced strong criticism of harsh immigration policies, asserting they contradict Catholic teachings.
Joining them, Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin from Newark, age 73, has a history of reaching out to underrepresented communities. He previously served in Indianapolis and has advocated for the inclusion of women in the cardinalate.
Cardinal Wilton D. Gregory, the first African American cardinal and now 77, played a prominent role in shaping a zero-tolerance policy for sex abuse within the church and has been a vocal supporter of LGBTQ rights.
Cardinal Kevin J. Farrell, also 77, has significant administrative experience as the prefect of the Dicastery for the Laity, the Family and Life, and has served a critical role following the resignations and deaths of popes.
Lastly, Cardinal Robert F. Prevost, aged 69, brings vast experience to the conclave having advised Pope Francis on bishop appointments globally—making him a potential but unlikely candidate for pope, as the tradition of an American pope has yet to be established.
With these ten U.S. Cardinals preparing to cast their votes, the impending conclave could herald a transformative era for the Catholic Church, encapsulating the hopes of progressives who back Pope Francis' vision for a more inclusive and responsive church.
As the world turns its attention to Rome, the College of Cardinals is preparing for the imminent conclave, with 10 American cardinals among the electors who will be casting their votes for the next pope. This group of cardinal electors is part of the 17 overall U.S. Cardinals; the other seven are beyond the age limit of 80, barring them from participation.
Significantly, six of the cardinals eligible to vote were appointed by Pope Francis, reflecting a concerted effort to infuse the church leadership with figures who underscore his priorities, particularly surrounding immigration, environmentalism, and social justice policies.
Among them is Cardinal Blase J. Cupich of Chicago, age 76, who previously held positions in South Dakota and Spokane, Washington. His elevation marks one of Pope Francis' earliest leadership changes aimed at bolstering support for immigrants within the church, tasked with shepherding an archdiocese of approximately two million Catholics.
Cardinal Robert W. McElroy, from Washington and aged 71, has become well-known for his advocacy for marginalized groups including migrants, women, and the LGBTQ community. He has voiced strong criticism of harsh immigration policies, asserting they contradict Catholic teachings.
Joining them, Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin from Newark, age 73, has a history of reaching out to underrepresented communities. He previously served in Indianapolis and has advocated for the inclusion of women in the cardinalate.
Cardinal Wilton D. Gregory, the first African American cardinal and now 77, played a prominent role in shaping a zero-tolerance policy for sex abuse within the church and has been a vocal supporter of LGBTQ rights.
Cardinal Kevin J. Farrell, also 77, has significant administrative experience as the prefect of the Dicastery for the Laity, the Family and Life, and has served a critical role following the resignations and deaths of popes.
Lastly, Cardinal Robert F. Prevost, aged 69, brings vast experience to the conclave having advised Pope Francis on bishop appointments globally—making him a potential but unlikely candidate for pope, as the tradition of an American pope has yet to be established.
With these ten U.S. Cardinals preparing to cast their votes, the impending conclave could herald a transformative era for the Catholic Church, encapsulating the hopes of progressives who back Pope Francis' vision for a more inclusive and responsive church.
