Which New York cardinal reportedly served as a 'kingmaker' during the 2025 papal conclave that elected Pope Leo XIV?

Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the Archbishop of New York, reportedly played a significant "kingmaker" role during the 2025 papal conclave that ultimately elected Pope Leo XIV. While the inner workings of a conclave are kept secret, reports and Dolan's own reflections suggest his considerable influence in shaping the outcome. A "kingmaker" in this context refers to a cardinal who, while not necessarily a candidate for the papacy himself, wields substantial sway among his peers, guiding discussions and building consensus around a particular candidate.

Cardinal Dolan, known for his charismatic personality and extensive connections within the College of Cardinals, was well-positioned to exert such influence. Having participated in the 2013 conclave, he had years of experience and had cultivated relationships with many cardinals from around the world through his travels and meetings. He reportedly found that during the 2025 conclave, many of his brother cardinals sought his advice on various matters, highlighting his respected position and ability to rally moderate voices.

This behind-the-scenes guidance is crucial in a papal conclave, where cardinals gather in the Sistine Chapel, secluded from the outside world, to prayerfully discern and elect the next leader of the Catholic Church. The process involves multiple rounds of secret balloting until a candidate secures a two-thirds majority. Dolan's reported efforts helped to steer the discussions and build support for the eventual Pope Leo XIV, who was identified as the former Cardinal Robert Prevost. His advocacy contributed to the election, making him a key figure in the historic selection of Pope Leo XIV.