Even into the 18th century, the cardinal-nephew was a natural power broker at the conclave following his uncle's death, as a figure whom cardinals desirous of continuing the status quo could rally around.
Sampai abad ke-18, kardinal keponakan menjadi pialang kekuasaan alami di konklaf setelah pamannya meninggal, sebagai figur yang meminta para kardinal agar tetap menjalankan status quo.