U.S. President Donald Trump congratulated Pope Leo on his election to head the Catholic Church on Thursday, and said it "is such an honor to realize that he is the first American Pope."

President Donald Trump is scheduled to sign executive orders later, while the White House can expect questions on the election of the first ever American pope. President Trump's executive actions will likely continue to reflect his administration's priorities,

The president said Thursday that he looks forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV, while Vance — who visited with the previous pope the day before his death — said millions will “pray for his successful work.