Will Cardinal O’Malley Become Pope?

With the papal conclave to choose the next pope beginning Tuesday, speculation has grown about Cardinal Sean O'Malley of the Archdiocese of Boston.

O’Malley's name is on the list of those who could become the new pontiff following Pope Benedict XVI’s Feb. 11 resignation, according to the National Catholic Reporter.

Though it's not likely an American would be elected, it’s not impossible, and O’Malley has as good a chance as any Western papal candidate, according to the Reporter.

O’Malley, 68, has been lauded for his efforts in the wake of the Church’s sex abuse crisis. However, the Reporter said O’Malley may not have enough Vatican experience and, referring to his reaction to the 2004 closing of parishes in the archdiocese, might be seen as someone who would struggle with the burden of office.

O’Malley is highly regarded in the Catholic Church, but there has never been an American pope. Should it be O’Malley? Leave your opinion in the comments.