Poisonous rumours and pink smoke - busy time for conclave whisperers


A person walks past an images of late Pope Francis, ahead of the conclave to elect the next pope, near the Vatican, in Rome, Italy, May 5, 2025. REUTERS/Murad Sezer

VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - Throughout history, there has been no shortage of outside attempts to influence the outcome of a conclave to elect a new pope, either by European monarchs, Italy's noble families or even Romans who rioted in the streets to stand by their man.

Today's influencers use social media, television and newspaper interviews, news conferences, open letters, and even puffs of pink smoke.

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