Countdown to Papal Conclave: Conservative Catholics Engage in Strategic Influencing
As the papal conclave approaches, conservative Catholics are mobilizing in Rome, preparing for the pivotal event to elect a new pope. With a significant presence of U.S. cardinals, there is speculation about the impact of American influence on the proceedings, including efforts by MAGA-aligned groups to sway votes through extravagant donations. The Sistine Chapel is set to host the cardinals, who will face challenges that the new pope must address. Observers are keeping an eye on potential candidates and examining how historical practices, such as the secret ballot leading to the iconic white smoke, will unfold this time. The world watches closely, with many wondering if this conclave could result in the election of the first-ever American pope.
The New York Times, NPR, The Daily Beast, CBS News, Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Time Magazine, ABC News, USA Today, The Times, National Catholic Reporter