Argentine Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio Named Pope Francis I

As reported by the Washington Post and AP, a new Pope has been elected today-- Argentine Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, who has chosen the name Pope Francis I. The Pope, a Jesuit, is the first Pope ever from the Americas.

UPDATE: President Obama on Wednesday afternoon issued a statement (full text) offering warmest wishes to the new Pope on behalf of the American people. The statement said in part:

Just as I appreciated our work with Pope Benedict XVI, I look forward to working with His Holiness to advance peace, security and dignity for our fellow human beings, regardless of their faith.