Viewed as a conservative, Bengsch did not involve himself in political affairs. He was created cardinal-priest of S. Filippo Neri in Eurosia by Pope Paul VI in the consistory of June 26, 1967. As Bengsch was the first East German to receive the red hat, this was seen as an act to better the Church's relations with East Germany. He was also the youngest prelate to be elevated at the ceremony. Berlin's bishop was one of the cardinal electors in the conclaves of August and October 1978.