Key insights on the U.S. cardinals participating in the papal conclave, their backgrounds, and potential influences on the election.
U.S. Cardinals Poised to Shape Papal Future as Conclave Approaches

U.S. Cardinals Poised to Shape Papal Future as Conclave Approaches
10 of the 17 American Cardinals hold voting power in upcoming conclave to elect next Pope.
The College of Cardinals is gearing up for the upcoming papal conclave, with 10 American cardinals eligible to cast their votes for the next Pope. The conclave's significance is heightened by the fact that six of these ten cardinals were appointed by Pope Francis, reflecting a continuity of his vision for the Church. The other seven U.S. cardinals, being over 80 years old, are not allowed to vote.
Among the electors, Cardinal Blase J. Cupich of Chicago is notable for his advocacy on issues pertaining to immigration and social justice. Recognized for his approach to reshaping church leadership in the U.S., his elevation to cardinal was one of Pope Francis' early actions.
Cardinal Robert W. McElroy, formerly of San Diego, actively speaks for marginalized groups, including migrants and the L.G.B.T.Q. community. His remarks regarding the prior administration's immigration policies highlight his commitment to aligning social justice with Catholic doctrine.
Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin of Newark brings a varied background, having previously served in Indianapolis where he was known for his compassion towards individuals affected by AIDS. His views challenge traditional narratives around leadership in the Church, particularly regarding women's roles.
Cardinal Wilton D. Gregory, the first African-American cardinal, has quietly forged a path in advocating for L.G.B.T. rights and crafting strategies post-Pope Francis' encyclicals on pressing social issues, including environmental care.
Cardinal Kevin J. Farrell, esteemed for his influential roles within the Church's leadership structure, plays a critical administrative role as the Vatican's acting chamberlain. Additionally, Cardinal Robert F. Prevost's association with advising on global bishop appointments places him as a notable figure in the conclave, with some even considering him a potential papal candidate.
In this crucial conclave, the perspectives and priorities of these U.S. cardinals reflect the evolving landscape of the Catholic Church, indicating shifts toward progressive social values that align with Pope Francis's enduring legacy.
Among the electors, Cardinal Blase J. Cupich of Chicago is notable for his advocacy on issues pertaining to immigration and social justice. Recognized for his approach to reshaping church leadership in the U.S., his elevation to cardinal was one of Pope Francis' early actions.
Cardinal Robert W. McElroy, formerly of San Diego, actively speaks for marginalized groups, including migrants and the L.G.B.T.Q. community. His remarks regarding the prior administration's immigration policies highlight his commitment to aligning social justice with Catholic doctrine.
Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin of Newark brings a varied background, having previously served in Indianapolis where he was known for his compassion towards individuals affected by AIDS. His views challenge traditional narratives around leadership in the Church, particularly regarding women's roles.
Cardinal Wilton D. Gregory, the first African-American cardinal, has quietly forged a path in advocating for L.G.B.T. rights and crafting strategies post-Pope Francis' encyclicals on pressing social issues, including environmental care.
Cardinal Kevin J. Farrell, esteemed for his influential roles within the Church's leadership structure, plays a critical administrative role as the Vatican's acting chamberlain. Additionally, Cardinal Robert F. Prevost's association with advising on global bishop appointments places him as a notable figure in the conclave, with some even considering him a potential papal candidate.
In this crucial conclave, the perspectives and priorities of these U.S. cardinals reflect the evolving landscape of the Catholic Church, indicating shifts toward progressive social values that align with Pope Francis's enduring legacy.