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PBS News Hour

A look at difficult issues the next pope will face

Season 2025 Episode 127 | 8m 11s

Black smoke poured from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel on Wednesday, signifying that the cardinals did not elect a new pope on the first ballot. The cardinals are considering difficult and divisive issues as they choose the next pontiff. Geoff Bennett discussed the conclave and the controversies surrounding the Catholic Church with Philip Shenon, author of "Jesus Wept."

Major corporate funding for the PBS News Hour is provided by BDO, BNSF, Consumer Cellular, American Cruise Lines, and Raymond James. Funding for the PBS NewsHour Weekend is provided by Consumer Cellular and Cunard Cruise Line. For a complete list of funders for the PBS NewsHour and PBS NewsHour weekend, click here.
Extras
Watch • 4:20
PBS News Hour
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Remembering Justice David Souter and his Supreme Court legacy
Clip: S2025 E129 | 4:20
Watch • 7:11
PBS News Hour
India's U.S. ambassador on escalating conflict with Pakistan
India's U.S. ambassador discusses the escalating conflict with Pakistan
Clip: S2025 E129 | 7:11
Watch • 3:55
PBS News Hour
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Clip: S2025 E129 | 3:55
Watch • 6:48
PBS News Hour
Pope Leo's longtime friend on what to expect from his papacy
Pope Leo XIV's longtime friend shares insights on what to expect from his papacy
Clip: S2025 E129 | 6:48
Watch • 8:05
PBS News Hour
Mohsen Mahdawi says release shows democracy is functioning
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Clip: S2025 E129 | 8:05
Watch • 4:47
PBS News Hour
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Clip: S2025 E129 | 4:47
Watch • 5:23
PBS News Hour
Putin uses WWII celebration to strengthen ties with China
Putin uses Russia’s WWII celebration to strengthen alliance with China
Clip: S2025 E129 | 5:23
Watch • 57:46
PBS News Hour
May 9, 2025 - PBS News Hour full episode
May 9, 2025 - PBS News Hour full episode
Episode: S2025 E129 | 57:46
Watch • 11:05
PBS News Hour
Bill Gates on why he's donating his remaining wealth
Bill Gates on why he's donating his remaining wealth and his concerns about U.S. aid cuts
Clip: S2025 E128 | 11:05
Watch • 3:41
PBS News Hour
A Brief But Spectacular take on building a brighter future
A Brief But Spectacular take on building a brighter future
Clip: S2025 E128 | 3:41