**Congratulations to Our New Pope: President Donald Trump Says First-Ever American Pope Is a “Great Honor for Our Country”**
In an unprecedented and historic moment for the Roman Catholic Church and the United States, **an American cardinal has been elected pope for the first time in history**. The Vatican confirmed today that Cardinal Matthew Thomas of New York will assume the papacy as **Pope Innocent XIV**, following the resignation of Pope Francis due to health reasons.
As the news reverberated around the globe, former President **Donald J. Trump** issued a statement calling the election of an American pope a **“great honor for our country”** and “a tremendous sign of respect for American values and faith.”
“This is truly a remarkable day,” said Trump in an address from his Florida estate. “For the first time ever, the leader of the Catholic Church is an American — and not just any American, but a man of deep faith, intelligence, and patriotism. It’s a great honor for our country and a huge win for religious freedom.”
### The New Pope: A Historic Choice
Pope Innocent XIV, formerly Cardinal Matthew Thomas, 68, was born in Chicago and served as Archbishop of New York before being elevated to cardinal in 2016. Known for his eloquent sermons, emphasis on unity, and modern views on engaging young Catholics, Pope Innocent XIV has also been recognized for his diplomatic skills and global humanitarian outreach.
His election by the College of Cardinals after two days of deliberation marks a shift in the Church’s global perspective — highlighting the growing influence of the Catholic Church in the Western Hemisphere.
### Trump’s Reaction and Religious Legacy
President Trump, who enjoyed strong support from many Catholic voters during his political career, praised the Church’s decision to select an American leader.
“I met Cardinal Thomas several times during my presidency,” Trump said. “He’s a man who loves this country and also respects the traditions of the Church. He’ll be a strong leader — probably the strongest we’ve seen in centuries. Some say the greatest already.”
Trump also used the moment to speak about the importance of religion in American life.
“For years, people tried to take God out of the public square, out of schools, out of everything,” he said. “But today shows the world that faith in America is not only alive — it’s leading the world.”
### Global and National Reactions
Reactions poured in from religious leaders, politicians, and ordinary citizens across the globe. President Joe Biden, a lifelong Catholic, also congratulated the new pope, calling it “a moment of profound inspiration for all Catholics and Americans.”
Religious analysts note that the selection of an American pope could bring the Church closer to addressing modern social and political issues, particularly in North America.
“This is a turning point for the Vatican,” said Father Miguel Herrera, a church historian. “It’s a clear sign that the Church is embracing a more global leadership, and America is now at the heart of it.”
### Looking Ahead
Pope Innocent XIV is expected to deliver his first public address from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica tomorrow. As white smoke clears over the Vatican, a new chapter in Catholic history begins — and for the first time, it carries a distinctly American voice.
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