Who Will Be the Next Pope? Here Are Some Possible Contenders.
Briefly

The selection of the next Roman Catholic pope is fraught with uncertainty, heightened by Pope Francis's appointments that diversified the College of Cardinals, making it difficult to predict potential factions. In the lead-up to the conclave following Francis’ funeral, speculation is rife regarding whether electors will continue his agenda or revert to tradition. Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle are key contenders, but the unpredictability increases due to the varied backgrounds of newly appointed cardinals who are not well-acquainted. This environment leads to a broader list of candidates and potential surprises ahead of the conclave.
Before selecting Pope Francis in 2013, bookmakers overlooked him among front-runners, illustrating the unpredictability of papal selections, especially as dynamics within the College of Cardinals evolve.
The complexities of this conclave are compounded by Pope Francis’ diverse appointments, which have transformed the College of Cardinals, obscuring potential paths when selecting his successor.
With Cardinals Pietro Parolin and Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle topping the speculation, observers are keen to see if electors favor continuity with Francis' agenda or traditionalism in the next pope.
As newly appointed cardinals gather without deep familiarity, this conclave is particularly unpredictable, breeding potential for surprises among a long list of emerging contenders.
Read at www.nytimes.com
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