CHICAGO (CBS) — Congressman Dan Lipinski’s name has been mentioned as a possible candidate to be the next U.S. ambassador to the Vatican in Rome, although he said he’s not expecting to be appointed.
Lipinski’s name came up in an analysis piece by a Vatican expert in the National Catholic Reporter.
“I’m just honored that other people have mentioned my name,” Lipinski told WBBM Newsradio’s Bernie Tafoya. “If it would come about – and I’m certainly not expecting it – but if it would come about, I would definitely have to consider that. It would be a great honor, but I’d also have to weigh it against giving up my job as a representative.”
Lipinski, a pro-life lawmaker who represents parts of the Southwest Side and southern suburbs, said it’s important that the U.S. ambassador to the Vatican be accepted by the Pope, and he believes he would be.
“My Catholic background would certainly help. I’m also a Democrat, and in some ways it’s difficult for a Democratic president sometimes to find someone who’s a Democrat – who comes from the Democratic Party – who also would be viewed favorably by the Vatican,” he said.
