Episode Details

In a special Wake Up Tri-Counties interview, former U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See, Frances Rooney, shared insights into his personal friendship with Pope Leo, the first American pope born in Illinois. Rooney recounted their early meetings when Pope Leo was known as "Father Bob," attending board meetings in Tulsa and later leading the Augustinian Order in Rome. Reflecting on Pope Leo’s calm demeanor and his impactful message, Rooney noted the pope’s unique ability to engage with global issues like immigration. Rooney also discussed his time in Congress, work on Everglades preservation, and his book, "The Global Vatican," highlighting the Holy See’s diplomatic influence.

Ambassador Francis Rooney boasts a distinguished career spanning diplomacy, business, and public service. Representing Florida’s 19th Congressional District from 2017 to 2021, Rooney was renowned for his bipartisan approach and leadership on climate action, including introducing carbon tax legislation and advocating for Everglades restoration. Prior to Congress, he served as U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See from 2005 to 2008 and authored a book on Vatican-U.S. relations. Rooney led Manhattan Construction Company, overseeing projects like the U.S. Capitol Visitor’s Center and major sports stadiums. He now serves as chairman of the family business, Rooney Holdings. An active board member and fluent in Spanish, Rooney’s contributions reach across public policy, international relations, and environmental advocacy.

Born in Muskogee, Oklahoma, Francis Rooney is the eldest of six children in the Rooney family. Pursuing his education in Maryland, Rooney attended the prestigious Georgetown Preparatory School before entering Georgetown University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1975. He continued his studies at Georgetown University Law Center, obtaining his Juris Doctor in 1978. Rooney’s impressive academic journey set the stage for his notable career in business, law, and politics.