The Message of Pope Francis on the U.S. Elections
Recently, Pope Francis made headlines once again by sharing his views on the upcoming U.S. elections. In a press conference during his return from a tour in Asia, the Pope criticized both presidential candidates for their stances on abortion and migration, labeling them as “anti-life.”
Without naming Donald Trump or Kamala Harris specifically, Pope Francis urged American Catholics to choose the “lesser evil” when casting their votes. He emphasized the importance of upholding life and supporting migrants, two issues close to the heart of the Catholic Church.
Francis, known for his advocacy for migrants and refugees, reiterated the Biblical call to welcome the stranger and condemned any actions that go against this principle. On the topic of abortion, he didn’t mince words, stating that it is tantamount to killing a human being.
When asked about the civic duty to vote, Pope Francis encouraged voters to reflect on their choices and select the candidate they believe embodies the “lesser evil.” He acknowledged the complexities of the decision and urged individuals to follow their conscience.
This is not the first time the Pope has intervened in U.S. politics. In the lead-up to the 2016 election, he criticized Trump’s plan to build a wall at the U.S.-Mexico border, questioning the Christian values behind such actions.
As the U.S. Catholic Bishops highlight abortion as a key issue for American Catholics, and Kamala Harris defends abortion rights, the debate surrounding life and choice continues to be a divisive issue.
Aside from his comments on the U.S. elections, Pope Francis addressed various other topics, including his plans to visit the Canary Islands to raise awareness about migrant issues, the possibility of returning to Argentina, and the Church’s relationship with China.
Overall, Pope Francis’s message serves as a reminder for voters to consider their values and beliefs when making decisions at the polls, emphasizing the importance of protecting life and showing compassion towards those in need.