The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) will vote on Tuesday to elect their next president and vice president in Baltimore, a decision that could signal the group’s priorities and approach to key social issues, including immigration.
The USCCB has often diverged from the policies of Pope Francis, and his successor, Pope Leo XIV, continues to emphasize pastoral care for marginalized communities, poverty reduction, and environmental concerns. Half of the 10 candidates on the ballot come from the conservative wing of the conference, reflecting a split more in style than substance, as most U.S. bishops hold conservative views on social issues but vary in their focus on abortion and LGBTQ+ rights.
“The slate of 10 candidates perfectly reflects the dynamics of the American hierarchy in that it’s split down the middle,” said David Gibson, director of Fordham University’s Center on Religion and Culture.
No clear front-runner has emerged. The winner will succeed Military Services Archbishop Timothy Broglio for a three-year term, while current vice president Archbishop William Lori of Baltimore is ineligible due to age. Among conservatives, Oklahoma City Archbishop Paul Coakley is considered a strong contender, having served as secretary of the conference and advising the conservative Napa Institute.
Other notable candidates include Bishop Robert Barron of Minnesota, known for his media ministry Word on Fire, and Bishop Kevin Rhoades of Indiana, both members of President Donald Trump’s Religious Liberty Commission. Meanwhile, Archbishop Charles Thompson of Indianapolis and Bishop Daniel Flores of Brownsville, Texas, are seen as potential unifiers who could strengthen relations with the Vatican.
Latino leaders Flores and Archbishop Nelson Perez of Philadelphia represent a growing segment of the U.S. Catholic Church. Flores, who has overseen the Vatican’s synod process in the U.S., combines traditional stances on sexual ethics with outspoken advocacy for migrants.
Immigration is expected to be a key topic during the meeting. While U.S. bishops are often divided, they largely support migrants, including those affected by the Trump administration’s strict policies. Fear of enforcement has reduced Mass attendance and complicated sacramental services for detained immigrants. The USCCB also ended its refugee resettlement program after federal funding was halted.
Pope Leo recently urged “deep reflection” in the U.S. on the treatment of migrants in detention, noting that many long-term residents have been severely affected by current policies.