Pope Leo XIV marks 100 days with strong but cautious popularity

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By Sunny A. David, Awka

Pope Leo XIV has completed his first 100 days as head of the Catholic Church with polls showing strong early support, though not yet at the levels once enjoyed by his predecessor, Pope Francis.

Leo, a native of Chicago, was elected on May 8 following a two-day conclave and celebrated his first Mass the next day in the Sistine Chapel. He succeeded Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday.

According to an Associated Press–NORC survey conducted in early June, about two-thirds of U.S. Catholics said they viewed the new pontiff either “very” or “somewhat” favorably. Roughly three in ten respondents said they lacked enough information to form an opinion, while fewer than one in ten expressed an unfavorable view.

The poll also indicated that Pope Leo’s support cut across political lines, with similar levels among Democrats and Republicans. Older Americans expressed greater approval than younger ones.

A Gallup survey in late July showed a comparable trend, with 57 percent of U.S. adults holding a favorable opinion of him, 11 percent unfavorable, and 31 percent undecided. His net approval placed him ahead of several world leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump.

By comparison, Pope Francis enjoyed a 59 percent favorability rating two years into his papacy, peaking at 90 percent in 2015 before settling at 75 percent by 2024, according to Pew Research Center data.

During his inaugural Mass in May, Pope Leo warned against “discord, hatred, prejudice, and economic systems that exploit resources while marginalizing the poor.” His remarks signaled an intention to continue addressing global divisions and social inequalities.

Catholics such as Terry Barber, 50, of Sacramento, expressed optimism about the new pope’s leadership: “The first pope from the United States is significant. Since he worked closely under the previous pope, I expect some continuity, but also some fresh ideas of his own.”

As Pope Leo’s papacy unfolds, observers note that his popularity is likely to shift depending on his policies and public appearances. For now, early signs suggest he has secured broad goodwill as he begins shaping his legacy.