Live Updates: Robert Francis Prevost, Now Leo XIV, Is First American Pope

Pope Leo XIV was elected to the papacy without much public focus on LGBTQ+ rights, a cause championed by his predecessor, Pope Francis, and a source of conflict between liberals and conservatives in the church. While some within the LGBTQ+ community expressed cautious optimism about his papacy, experts noted that his past comments criticized gay and transgender issues, leaving many nervous. However, as an American pope chosen after years of attention to other issues, his early stance could indicate increased openness to inclusion, though it remains uncertain whether he will actively embrace LGBTQ+ rights like Francis did.