Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who announced Pope Francis' death, is now the acting head of the Vatican until a new pope is elected. As the camerlengo, he has specific duties during the transition period, including verifying the pope's death and preparing for the conclave. Farrell, a Dublin-born U.S. citizen, has held various positions in the Vatican and has been in close proximity to scandal during his career. While his role as camerlengo does not guarantee his election as pope, history shows that two previous camerlengos have become popes.
Source: https://www.npr.org/2025/04/21/g-s1-61662/kevin-farrell-camerlengo-vatican-pope