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The First American Pope
May 9, 2025
Terry Moran, ABC News senior national correspondent, reports live from Vatican City about the groundbreaking election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, stirring excitement and hope. Karen Travers, ABC News White House correspondent, delves into a newly announced trade framework between the U.S. and U.K., discussing its implications for agriculture and automotive sectors. The podcast also touches on the impending re-entry of a Soviet-era spacecraft, exploring the risks of space debris and its potential consequences.
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Quick takeaways
- Pope Leo XIV's election as the first American pope represents a historic shift in the Catholic Church's leadership dynamics and outreach ethos.
- The choice of the name Leo XIV signifies a commitment to addressing economic and social justice issues, particularly regarding workers' rights globally.
Deep dives
Selection of the First American Pope
The election of the first American pope marks a historic moment for the Catholic Church, as Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, was chosen by the College of Cardinals. The event was celebrated by tens of thousands in St. Peter's Square who erupted in joy upon seeing the white smoke signaling the election's conclusion. Emerging from the Sistine Chapel, Pope Leo XIV addressed the crowd in fluent Italian, emphasizing the virtues of the gospel and the need for a church that builds bridges with open arms. His election is viewed as a sign of hope and a shift in the church's leadership dynamic.