CBS News Grabs Attention With Comment on Papal Conclave
Black smoke emerged from the Vatican on Wednesday evening, indicating that a new Pope had not been chosen in the first round of voting. Over 130 cardinals are now gathered in the Sistine Chapel, signaling the beginning of the Papal Conclave.
CBS covered the beginning of the event on Wednesday, and one journalist's comment is going viral after viewers were stunned to hear it during such a prestigious ceremony.
As the cardinals prepared to begin, a host asked a papal contributor to explain the process.
"The one thing we know they’re not doing is checking Instagram, because their devices have all been confiscated," said CBS' John Allen, providing context to the ceremony as viewers looked at a live stream of the Vatican.
Allen mentioned that the cardinals will read prayers during their time inside the chapel, as the process takes place and a new pope is determined.
"I believe the kids call it raw-dogging it, if you go through a long period of time with no electronic device," said the host, drawing awkward laughter and a quick subject change from the rest of the panel.
"You keep using that word. I do not think it means what you think it means," said one commenter, drawing from a scene out of "The Princess Bride."
Another commenter posted emojis, signaling that they were covering their eyes in shame.
The Papal Conclave is underway to find a new Pope following the death of Pope Francis at the age of 88 last month.
“At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father,” Cardinal Kevin Farrell said on behalf of the Vatican on April 21 - Easter Monday.
“He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially in favor of the poorest and the marginalized."
Let's check in on CBS News' coverage of the Papal Conclave.
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) May 7, 2025
"The one thing we know they’re not doing is checking Instagram, because their devices have all been confiscated."
"I believe the kids call it raw-dogging it." pic.twitter.com/294F1fHxIs
The ceremony will continue until white smoke billows from the top of the Vatican and a new Pope emerges from the balcony. We'll see how long it takes for the cardinals to come to a decision, and if other news outlets can avoid awkward moments during its duration.