In Video: This Morning’s Top Headlines – May 9 | Morning News NOW
Historic Moment: Pope Leo I 14th Elected as New Pope
In a shocking turn of events, Cardinal Robert Francis Perusoni, an American-born prelate with a rich background in social justice and human rights, was elected as the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church. He introduces himself as Pope Leo I 14th and becomes the first American to hold the position. His election was announced by a puff of white smoke and was met with cheers and tears of joy from the thousands of people gathered in St. Peter’s Square.
A Modern and Inclusive Pontiff
As he takes the reins of the global Catholic Church, Pope Leo I 14th promises to be a bridge builder, reaching out to those on the fringes of society and promoting unity among the faithful. In his first speech as Pope, he emphasized the need for the church to connect with people and to work towards a more just and inclusive world. His choice of name, Leo I 14th, is significant, as it honors the legacy of Pope Leo XIII, who championed social justice and workers’ rights.
A New Leader for a Global Church
Pope Leo I 14th is a naturalized citizen of Peru and has a unique blend of experience in North America, South America, and Europe. His election indicates a desire by the College of Cardinals to choose a leader with a global perspective and the ability to bring people together. As the first American-born Pope, he brings a fresh perspective to the role and an opportunity for the Catholic Church to engage with a new generation of Catholics in the United States and beyond.
White House Protests Over China US Meeting
Meanwhile, in a separate development, the White House has announced a meeting between US and Chinese officials to discuss trade tensions and the ongoing tariff dispute between the two nations. While the meeting is seen as an opportunity to de-escalate the situation, many are skeptical about the likelihood of a breakthrough. The US has imposed tariffs on $360 billion of Chinese goods, leading to retaliation by China.
Tensions Rise as Trump Names New US Attorney
In related news, the President has nominated US actress and TV host Janine Piro to become the new US Attorney for the District of Columbia, replacing Julia Sullivan who had opposed the January 6 defendants. However, the President’s move has been seen as a surprise, and Piro’s lack of experience as a practicing attorney has raised eyebrows in the legal community.
Forecast: Rainy Weekend in the East
The weather forecast is looking gloomy for the East Coast, with heavy rain and flash flooding expected in the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and New England over the weekend. A severe weather threat is also forecast for the Southeast, with wind gusts reaching up to 60 mph and a chance of hail and tornadoes.
Watch the Full Segment Here
To see more of the conversation with Ann Thompson and Deborah Lubov, NBC News Vatican analysts, and NBC News White House Correspondent, Victor Hillyard, tune in to the original segment on our website or social media channels.
