Reed Congratulates First American-born Pope

WASHINGTON, DC –Today, after Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago, Illinois was elected the 267thpope of the Roman Catholic Church and took the name Pope Leo XIV, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) issued the following statement congratulating and welcoming the new pontiff:
“As he prepares for his formal installation and ascension to the Papacy, I join people of all faiths in congratulating and welcoming Pope Leo XIV.  Like his predecessor Pope Francis, he comes from humble beginnings and has lived an exemplary life of devoted service.  I hope Pope Leo will continue to be a thoughtful leader, a force for peace, and a champion of the underprivileged.  As the first American-born Pope, he will be an inspiration for many.  I hope he will lead by example and help spread peace and understanding.”