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Black Smoke Signals No Pope Elected on First Day of 2025 Conclave


Tone & Political Bias: Center

Why: The reporting is factual and neutral, focusing on procedural details without editorializing or favoring any ideological perspective.





First Vote Ends Without Decision


On May 7, 2025, the Vatican's papal conclave commenced to elect a successor to Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88. The initial vote concluded without a decision, as indicated by black smoke emerging from the Sistine Chapel chimney at 9:00 p.m. local time. This signal denotes that no candidate achieved the required two-thirds majority, or 89 votes, among the 133 cardinal electors present.


Diverse and Largest Conclave in History


This conclave is notable for being the largest and most geographically diverse in the Church's history. The 133 cardinal electors hail from 70 countries, reflecting Pope Francis's efforts to globalize the College of Cardinals. Notably, this is the first conclave to include cardinals from nations such as Haiti, Myanmar, and Malaysia.


Leading Contenders Emerge


While no clear frontrunner has been established, several cardinals are considered prominent candidates:

  • Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy): The Vatican Secretary of State is viewed as a leading contender, reportedly securing approximately 50 votes in the first round.

  • Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines): Former Archbishop of Manila and current Prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples, Tagle represents a potential shift towards leadership from the global South.

  • Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa (Italy): The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, known for his work in the Middle East and interfaith dialogue, is also considered a significant candidate.


Other notable figures include cardinals from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sweden, and France, highlighting the conclave's international composition.


Voting Procedures and Secrecy


The conclave operates under strict confidentiality. Cardinals are sequestered within the Vatican, with all communication to the outside world prohibited. Voting occurs in the Sistine Chapel, with up to four ballots cast daily—two in the morning and two in the afternoon—until a new pope is elected.


Public Anticipation and Demonstrations


Thousands of faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square, awaiting the outcome of the first vote. The appearance of black smoke led to visible disappointment among the crowd. Additionally, a group of women conducted a peaceful demonstration nearby, releasing pink smoke to protest the exclusion of women from the priesthood and decision-making roles within the Church.


Next Steps


The cardinal electors will reconvene on May 8 for additional voting sessions. Historically, conclaves have varied in length, but recent ones have concluded within a few days. The process will continue until a candidate receives the necessary two-thirds majority, at which point white smoke will signal the election of the new pope.

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