Illinois Senate Republican Leader John Curran (R-Downers Grove) released the following statement on the election of Pope Leo XIV:
Congratulations to the Southside’s own Cardinal Robert Prevost on being elected as the new pope. I am beyond proud that Church leaders chose an Illinoisan as the first American to lead the Catholic Church around the world. I wish His Holiness Pope Leo XIV strength, clarity, and purpose as he helps guide my fellow Catholics and I on our journeys in faith.