How many of the new cardinals can vote for the next pope?

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Eighteen of the 21 newly appointed cardinals are eligible to vote in a papal conclave.

Pope Francis has announced the elevation of 21 churchmen to the rank of cardinal, a group that will eventually select his successor. The consistory for their installation is scheduled for September 30. Of these 21 individuals, 18 are under the age of 80 and therefore eligible to participate in a conclave.
New Cardinals Eligible to Vote

Eighteen of the 21 churchmen elevated to cardinal by Pope Francis are younger than 80 years old. This age threshold is critical for participation in a papal conclave, the process by which cardinals elect a new pope following the death or resignation of the current pontiff. These 18 individuals will have a direct vote in choosing the next leader of the Catholic Church.
Cardinals Over 80

The remaining three churchmen announced as new cardinals are over the age of 80. While these individuals are too old to vote in a conclave, they are still able to participate in pre-conclave meetings. These meetings, known as General Congregations, allow all cardinals, regardless of voting eligibility, to contribute to discussions regarding the qualities and direction desired for the next papal selection.
Geographical Diversity of New Cardinals

The newly appointed cardinals hail from a diverse range of countries, reflecting the global nature of the Catholic Church. Nations represented include the United States, Italy, Argentina, South Africa, Spain, Colombia, South Sudan, Hong Kong, Poland, Malaysia, Tanzania, and Portugal. This broad geographical distribution ensures varied perspectives within the College of Cardinals.
Key Vatican Appointments Among New Cardinals

Among the new cardinals are individuals recently appointed to lead significant Vatican departments. Notably, Argentine Archbishop Victor Manuel Fernandez, who heads the Vatican’s doctrinal department, is among those elevated. Bishop Stephen Chow Sau-Yan of Hong Kong was also appointed, highlighting his role as a key liaison with the Catholic Church in communist China, amidst ongoing efforts by the Vatican to improve conditions for Catholics there.

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How many of the new cardinals can vote for the next pope?

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