Chicago holds a unique connection between two globally recognized figures: Barack Obama and Pope Leo XIV. In a congratulatory post on X (formerly Twitter), Obama welcomed the newly appointed Pope, affectionately calling him a “fellow Chicagoan.” While Obama became a resident of the Windy City in 1985 after joining the Developing Communities Project, Pope Leo XIV was born and raised just south of Chicago in Dolton.
The ties go even deeper. Obama’s family eventually made Hyde Park their home, a neighborhood that also played a part in Pope Leo XIV’s spiritual journey. He attended the Catholic Theological Union in the same area, strengthening their geographical connection. For Obama, the South Side of Chicago isn’t just symbolic; it’s personal. His wife, Michelle, grew up there, and the area formed a significant part of the district he represented in the Illinois State Senate starting in 1996.
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And of course, no discussion of Chicago would be complete without touching on food and sports two passions both men seem to share strong opinions about. In a memorable 2016 interview with Anthony Bourdain, Obama joked that putting ketchup on a Chicago-style hot dog was a no-go beyond childhood. Interestingly, Pope Leo XIV holds a similar stance, as confirmed by his brother, who said the Pope also avoids ketchup on his hot dogs.
When it comes to baseball, the two align as White Sox supporters. Despite a viral post from the Cubs suggesting otherwise, the Pope’s brother clarified that Leo XIV has been a loyal Sox fan since childhood. Obama, too, has long pledged his allegiance to the South Side team, even ribbing comedian Bill Murray for flaunting his Cubs pride at the White House.
Beyond Chicago ties and lifestyle preferences, both men share a commitment to progressive ideals. They’ve each emphasized the urgency of addressing climate change, a cause close to both of their hearts. In contrast, Pope Leo XIV has had a noticeably cooler rapport with political figures like Donald Trump. His papacy’s early days even sparked some awkward moments for prominent conservatives, including JD Vance and his wife Usha, whose appearance beside the Pope drew unexpected attention.
In the end, it’s not just geography or fandom that connects Barack Obama and Pope Leo XIV ,it’s a shared worldview, a love for their city, and a dedication to causes larger than themselves.
Source: thelist
