In a closely watched decision, the U.S. Senate confirmed Brian Burch as the next U.S. ambassador to the Holy See in a 49-44 vote on August 2.

According to Catholic News Agency, Burch, a Catholic father of nine and founder of CatholicVote, overcame months of political delay ahead of Pope Leo XIV's installation as the first American pontiff.

Burch, a native of Chicago, was nominated by President Donald Trump and faced a prolonged confirmation process due to broader political disputes within the Senate. His confirmation had remained stalled for several months as part of a Democratic hold on diplomatic appointments.

Delayed Nomination Breaks Through Senate Gridlock

The delays originated when Senator Brian Schatz of Hawaii placed a sweeping hold on multiple State Department nominees. He cited his concerns over the Trump administration’s approach to foreign assistance and the future direction of USAID programs.

To move Burch’s nomination forward, Senate Majority Leader John Thune filed for cloture on July 31, signaling the chamber’s intent to end the deadlock and proceed to a final vote. The motion succeeded, and Burch’s nomination passed primarily along party lines, with Republicans in support and most Democrats in opposition.

The Senate Foreign Relations Committee had previously advanced Burch’s nomination with a 12-10 vote, showing a clear partisan divide. Democrats had voiced concerns tied to Burch’s past leadership at CatholicVote and his positions on international matters involving the Church.

Confirmation Hearing Covered Global Concerns

During his confirmation hearing, Burch was questioned on several complicated foreign policy topics, including reductions in American foreign aid and the controversial China-Vatican agreement that governs bishop appointments. He conveyed his alignment with Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s proposed reforms, which aim to recalibrate international aid for what the administration views as a strategic advantage.

Burch pledged to advocate for the Vatican’s renewed independence in appointing bishops, free from Chinese government interference. He also emphasized his view that the Holy See could serve as a mediator in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and assist in efforts to release Israeli hostages.

Burch offered reflections during his hearing on what he described as a unique moment in Vatican-U.S. relations. He noted that he would be stepping into his new role during the historic tenure of the newly selected American pope, Leo XIV, who also hails from Chicago, Burch’s hometown.

New Pope Adds Significance to Burch's Role

“In a remarkable coincidence, or what I prefer to attribute to providence, Pope Leo XIV is from Chicago, which is also my hometown,” Burch said. His remarks highlighted the symbolic nature of this new chapter in diplomatic relations between the Holy See and the United States.

“The relationship between the Holy See and the United States remains one of the most unique in the world, with the global reach and moral witness of the Catholic Church serving as a critical component of U.S. efforts to bring about peace and prosperity,” he added.

In a formal statement following his confirmation, Burch expressed gratitude to President Trump and the Senate for their confidence in him. He pledged to faithfully represent the administration and asked for prayers from Americans, particularly his fellow Catholics, as he undertakes what he called a "noble adventure."

Leadership Transition at CatholicVote

With Burch stepping into his ambassadorial role, CatholicVote has named Kelsey Reinhardt as its new president. Reinhardt praised Burch’s 17 years of leadership at the organization.

“For the past 17 years, Brian has faithfully championed CatholicVote’s mission to inspire American Catholics to live their faith in public life,” Reinhardt said in a statement. She added, “We are confident that he will similarly excel in this new role and are forever grateful for the foundation he laid and the impact he had on millions of Catholics across the Nation.”

On Saturday, CatholicVote celebrated Burch’s confirmation publicly, indicating that the group viewed the appointment as a milestone for both Burch personally and the Catholic political movement he helped build.