Marco Rubio, the Secretary of State, has expressed his congratulations to Pope Leo XIV following his election as the 267th successor to Saint Peter. In a statement released on May 8, 2025, Rubio highlighted the importance of this event for the Catholic Church, describing it as a moment that brings "renewed hope and continuity amid the 2025 Jubilee Year to over a billion faithful worldwide."
Rubio emphasized the significance of the papacy's role by stating that it "carries a sacred and solemn responsibility." He also shared that both he and Jeanette are united in prayer for Pope Leo XIV, hoping that "the Holy Spirit imparts wisdom, strength, and grace" upon him as he leads the Church.
The United States anticipates strengthening its relationship with the Vatican under Pope Leo XIV's leadership. This election marks a historic moment as he becomes the first American pontiff.