Pope Leo XIV: What the new popes name choice says about his future plans
IndependentMAY 12
Chicago-Born Cardinal Robert Prevost Elected as Pope Leo XIV
Above: Newly elected Pope Leo XIV, Robert Prevost arrives on the main central loggia balcony of the St Peter's Basilica for the first time, after the cardinals ended the conclave, in the Vatican, on May 8, 2025. Image copyright: Alberto Pizzoli/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
Though the idea of an American pope once seemed far-fetched, Prevost has all it takes to be a great pontiff. He is a moderate and private figure who is versed in canon law and a polyglot, and who has both pastoral experience in the peripheries and expertise in central governance of the Catholic Church.
Narrative B
It's concerning that Prevost has ascended to the papacy, as there is plenty of evidence that he covered up for two priests accused of sexual abuse against minors between 2006 and 2010, when he was the bishop of the small Peruvian diocese of Chiclayo. He should have never been elected pope.