The recent papal election culminated in the selection of Pope Leo XIV, influenced heavily by Pope Francis, who appointed 163 cardinals during his tenure. In contrast to U.S. elections, where a simple plurality can suffice, papal elections require a two-thirds majority, a process that adds a layer of complexity and tradition, marked by the symbolic white smoke. Furthermore, new voting reforms like ranked choice voting are being considered in various U.S. regions, aiming to ensure that elected officials receive majority backing rather than merely winning by the largest share of votes.
In the recent papal election, Pope Francis' influence was evident as he appointed 163 cardinals, 108 of whom voted in the conclave for Pope Leo XIV.
Unlike many elections in the U.S., where a candidate can win with a mere plurality, papal elections necessitate a two-thirds vote for legitimacy, evidenced by the iconic white smoke.
Ranked choice voting is gaining traction in various U.S. locales, requiring candidates to secure majority support, contrasting sharply with the traditional first-past-the-post system.
The conclaveâs voting process, raised beyond the Apostolic Constitutionâs original cap, showcases the intricate balance between tradition and influence in electing a new pope.
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