On his flight back to Rome from a trip to Asia, Pope Francis criticized both U.S. presidential candidates, without naming them, for their stances on abortion and migration, labeling their policies as anti-life. He urged American Catholics to choose the “lesser evil” when casting their votes in the upcoming election. The Pope emphasized the importance of defending life and the Biblical mandate to welcome migrants, stating that both candidates’ positions go against these principles.
Pope Francis highlighted the need for voters to carefully consider their choices and follow their conscience when deciding who to support. Despite not being able to vote himself as a non-American citizen, he stressed the significance of participating in the electoral process. The Pope’s comments come amidst debates surrounding abortion rights and immigration policies, which are crucial issues for the Catholic Church.
Migration has been a key focus for Pope Francis during his papacy, with him frequently speaking out on the importance of welcoming strangers and providing assistance to migrants. On the issue of abortion, the Pope reiterated the Church’s stance that it is the killing of a human being, emphasizing the gravity of such actions.
While not directly endorsing any candidate, Pope Francis urged voters to make an informed decision based on their understanding of who the “lesser evil” is. He emphasized the moral responsibility of individuals to choose wisely when deciding whom to support in the elections.
In addition to discussing the U.S. election, Pope Francis addressed various other topics, including his travel plans for the future, the importance of addressing sexual abuse within the Church, and his hopes to visit China in the future. The Pope also clarified that he would not be attending the inauguration of the restored Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris as previously rumored.
