Who is Cardinal Timothy Dolan? What are his chances to become first American Pope in papal election?

After the demise of Pope Francis at the age of 88, the Catholic Church is all set to enter a new chapter. The 2025 papal conclave will commence soon. Among the 137 cardinals eligible to vote is New York’s Archbishop Cardinal Timothy M Dolan, who is a renowned figure of American Catholicism. His presence in the conclave has raised the age-old question—Can an American ever become pope?

Who is Cardinal Timothy Dolan?

Cardinal Dolan has been a household name within the US Catholic circles for over a decade now. He was appointed as Archbishop of New York in 2009. Pope Benedict XVI, in 2012, elevated him to the rank of cardinal.


According to a NorthJersey report, he soon became popular and was known for his charisma, affable public persona, and staunch conservatism. Dolan has also served as a president of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops and has been a vocal defender of Church teaching, as per the report.

From opposing abortion rights, same-sex marriage to criticising Obama administration for their contraceptive mandate—Dolan has often been at the centre of American culture wars. However, despite his visibility and influence, the reports quoted Vatican experts suggesting that it is a longshot for Cardinal Dolan to be elected as the next Pope.

Why is an American Pope Unlikely?

Any male Roman Catholic, who has been baptised, is technically eligible to be elected as pope. However, every pope since 1378 has been selected from the College of Cardinals. Theoretically, Dolan is qualified to be the pope. However, no American has ever worn the white cassock and experts believe that it has been an intentional decision.

Reportedly, the Catholic Church has been historically hesitant to elect a pope from the US. They fear that it could politicise the papacy and undermine the pope's independence. American cardinals are frequently regarded as ‘culture warriors’, according to media reports. The division of ideology within the Church in the US has resulted in an American Pope being unpalatable for many outside of the country.

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Media reports quoted a Vatican journalist John Thavis as saying that a major obstacle against Dolan’s papacy is that he is “too American”.

What comes next after Pope Francis' death?

Following Pope Francis' death, the Church entered a period known as sede vacante (the Chair is vacant). The cardinals will soon journey to Rome, and although informal conversations are happening, the formal conclave will be held in total secrecy.

Cardinal Dolan may not have a role as a candidate, but rather a kingmaker. With eight American cardinals (more than any other single country outside Italy) together in conclave, they could move the Church in virtually any direction, the reports added.

FAQs

Q1. Who is Cardinal Timothy Dolan?
A1. Cardinal Dolan is the Archbishop of New York, known for his charisma, conservative views, and leadership in the US Catholic Church. He was elevated to cardinal in 2012.

Q2. Why is an American Pope unlikely?
A2. Experts believe an American pope may politicise the papacy. US cardinals are often seen as ‘culture warriors,’ which makes them controversial outside the country.