Pope Leo XIV, the first pontiff born in the United States, is receiving a largely positive reception from Americans, especially among Catholics, according to a new poll.

Just weeks after his historic election, a nationwide survey shows Pope Leo XIV is viewed with cautious optimism across party lines, with many hoping his leadership brings reform and unity to the Church, The Baltimore Sun reported.

The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research released new findings about American opinions of the pontiff just over a month after his elevation. Formerly known as Cardinal Robert Prevost, Pope Leo made global headlines by becoming the first American to lead the Catholic Church. His early weeks in office have been marked by public pledges to promote healing and inclusivity within the Church.

Support among American Catholics has been strong out of the gate. Nearly two-thirds express either a “very” or “somewhat” favorable opinion of the new pope. That positivity, however, is tempered by nearly 30% saying they lack enough information to say one way or another, while fewer than 10% report unfavorable views.

Among all U.S. adults, favorability drops slightly, with 44% holding a positive view and a similar share unsure. Only about 1 in 10 Americans across different groups expressed negative opinions, suggesting that Pope Leo’s public image remains largely unformed among many beyond the Catholic population.

Americans Divided by Knowledge, Not Partisanship

Political affiliation played a role in how well individuals felt they knew the pope, but not necessarily in their approval or disapproval. About half of Democrats have favorable opinions of Pope Leo XIV, compared with around four in 10 Republicans and independents. However, Republicans were more likely to say they didn’t have enough information, with about half indicating uncertainty compared to four in 10 Democrats.

Interestingly, levels of unfavorable opinion were similar across party lines, with around one in 10 Democrats and Republicans viewing the pope in a negative light. Among Catholics specifically, there was no statistically meaningful gap based on partisanship. The shared sense of hope for Pope Leo’s leadership appeared consistent across political boundaries.

The poll indicates that Pope Leo’s immediate appeal lies in the perceived capacity to steer the Church through shifting societal norms, without deepening the entrenched political divides that affect so many other institutions.

Pope’s Past Actions Raise Expectations

Pope Leo’s track record before his election may be playing a role in shaping public expectations. As a key official under Pope Francis, he helped implement reforms that allowed women to serve on a Vatican board responsible for reviewing candidates for the bishop. While he defends women’s leadership roles within the Church, he maintains the official position barring women from the priesthood.

This nuanced stance has stirred conversation among observers like Donald Hallstone, a Catholic from Oregon. He said he would welcome expanded roles for women, noting historical precedent from the early centuries of Christianity. Younger Americans, especially women, are watching keenly for how Pope Leo addresses such issues.

Mercedes Drink, a 31-year-old from Chicago now residing in Minnesota, said she supports Pope Leo’s potential to usher in change. “As a young woman, I hope that he can bring change,” she said. “He brings something new to the table. I hope he opens the world’s eyes to modernizing the church.”

Diverse Hopes From Across the Catholic Spectrum

Among conservative Catholics, there is also hope, but often attached to different expectations. Some look to Pope Leo to uphold Church positions opposing abortion and same-sex marriage. Victoria Becude, a Republican Catholic from Florida, said she is hopeful but has her views on abortion rights.

“I don't believe that they should stop women from having abortions,” Becude said. “We should have our rights because you don't know the circumstances behind the reason why a woman would want an abortion in the first place.” Her statements reflect ongoing tensions between traditional doctrine and contemporary views among lay Catholics.

Democrats, Republicans, and independents alike shared similar levels of favorable opinion, suggesting an openness to Pope Leo’s leadership even as policy-specific hopes diverged. “I’m optimistic,” said Terry Barber, a 50-year-old Democrat in Sacramento. He noted that Leo worked closely with the previous pope, but likely brings “some ideas that are original, of his own.”

Reception Shaped by Generational Differences

The poll also showed that age plays a role in how Americans relate to the new pope. Adults over 60 years old were more likely to express a favorable view compared to those under 30. Still, across all age groups, only about one in 10 had a negative impression of him.

Younger adults, while slightly more hesitant, appear curious about the new pontiff. Many may be awaiting signals about how his leadership will address current issues facing the Church. Older Catholics, meanwhile, may be more familiar or comfortable with the Church’s processes and message, reflecting greater positivity.

The findings suggest that time and communication will shape Pope Leo’s standing further. The widespread uncertainty revealed in the poll points to a general lack of knowledge rather than disapproval.

Pope Begins Public Outreach at the Vatican

Just days before the poll was released, Pope Leo appeared at his weekly general audience in St. Peter’s Square on June 11. His public appearances have emphasized reconciliation, dialogue, and peace—core parts of the vision he has articulated in multiple early statements.

He has also spoken out against rising nationalist political ideologies, signaling a continuation of Pope Francis’ efforts to promote international and interfaith harmony. While policy details have yet to be defined, his verbal commitment to unity has resonated with many Catholics seeking direction and cohesion.

As the first American pope, Leo XIV faces the dual task of inspiring confidence within the Vatican and responding to the expectations of the global Catholic community. His background and recent statements show an intention to modernize, while also preserving tradition in key doctrinal areas.