Pope Criticizes Harris and Trump as ‘Against Life,’ Urges Catholics to Vote Higher

Pope Francis recently voiced strong criticism of both U.S. presidential candidates, condemning their policies on abortion and migration. During a press conference on his flight back to Rome from a four-nation tour of Asia, he advised American Catholics to consider who represents the “lesser evil” in the upcoming elections.

Francis pointedly stated, “Both are against life, be it the one who kicks out migrants, or be it the one who kills babies.” His comments highlight the church’s concerns regarding both abortion and the treatment of migrants, issues that he has championed throughout his papacy.

While he did not mention Donald Trump or Kamala Harris by name, the pope’s remarks were unmistakably directed at the contentious policies surrounding these topics. He underscored his position by saying that migration is a fundamental right as described in scripture and emphasized that failing to welcome strangers is a serious moral failing.

His focus on migration reflects a long-standing commitment to advocating for the plight of migrants, which has been a hallmark of his leadership. On the issue of abortion, Francis maintained that it is essential to view the act as the taking of human life, asserting, “To have an abortion is to kill a human being.”

When asked what American voters should do when casting their ballots, Francis reiterated the civic responsibility to vote. “One should vote and choose the lesser evil,” he suggested, adding that individuals must evaluate their choices in line with their conscience.

This discourse occurred in the context of President Joe Biden’s support for abortion rights, which has attracted considerable attention from some Catholic bishops. After their 2021 meeting at the Vatican, Biden stated that Pope Francis affirmed his status as a “good Catholic,” suggesting he could continue receiving Communion despite his political stance.

Francis has previously commented on the stance of some U.S. bishops who seek to deny Biden Communion due to his views on abortion. He urged these bishops to act as spiritual guides rather than as political figures, indicating that their role should focus on pastoral care.

In prior engagements, Pope Francis has also addressed significant moments related to U.S. politics. Ahead of the 2016 elections, for example, he criticized Trump’s proposal to build a border wall, stating, “Anyone who builds a wall to keep out migrants is not Christian.” His remarks during this recent news conference included personal reflections on his experiences at the U.S.-Mexico border.

Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis has confronted critical global issues, and this latest discourse reflects his ongoing commitment to advocacy and moral leadership. The U.S. bishops’ conference has deemed abortion as the “preeminent priority” for American Catholics, a stance that aligns with Francis’ emphasis on the gravity of the issue.

The pope reiterated the scientific understanding regarding fetal development, saying that by one month into pregnancy, essential organs are already in place. While acknowledging the complexity surrounding the discussion of abortion, he remains firm in his belief that it equates to the act of killing.

Francis also took the opportunity to address other topics beyond the U.S. elections. He dismissed a report suggesting he would attend the December inauguration of the restored Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, asserting that he wouldn’t be there, although he expressed a desire to visit the Canary Islands to draw attention to the struggles of migrants.

Additionally, he touched upon future travel plans, noting his wish to return to Argentina but indicating that nothing is finalized. Yet, he emphasized the significance of resolving various matters first, as he has not returned to his homeland since becoming pope.

Furthermore, Francis expressed hope regarding the Catholic Church’s prospects in China and described recent allegations of sexual abuse against a prominent French priest as “demonic,” reinforcing his commitment to addressing issues of abuse within the Church.

These comments from the papal figure reflect ongoing social and moral debates, encouraging believers to deliberate on their choices carefully and consider the broader implications of their votes.

Source: Associated Press