Robert Francis Prevost, a Villanova University graduate, has made history as the first American elected as pope, following a two-day conclave. Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, earned at least 89 votes from 133 cardinals. Reaction poured in from across the nation, with Governor Josh Shapiro and Pennsylvania leaders offering their congratulations. The new pope, a Chicago native, is praised for his humility and missionary experience. His election follows the death of Pope Francis, and the announcement was met with cheers in St. Peter’s Square.