Pope Criticizes Harris and Trump’s Anti-Life Views, Urges Catholics to Vote

Pope Francis, during his recent flight back to Rome from a four-nation tour through Asia, expressed strong criticism directed at both major U.S. presidential candidates. He labeled their policies on migration and abortion as “anti-life,” advising American Catholics to evaluate whom to vote for by considering the “lesser evil” in the upcoming elections.

In a press conference on the papal plane, Francis underscored his perspective without specifying the candidates. He stated, “Both are against life, be it the one who kicks out migrants or the one who (supports) killing babies.” His comments spotlighted the central issues of the impending U.S. elections, particularly concerning abortion and migration, which align closely with the Catholic Church’s teachings.

Throughout his papacy, Francis has consistently emphasized the importance of addressing the struggles of migrants. He asserts that migration is not only a humanitarian issue but a right that is rooted in Biblical teachings. He warned that failing to welcome those in need constitutes a “grave sin.”

Addressing the topic of abortion, the Pope was unequivocal, stating, “To have an abortion is to kill a human being. You may like the word or not, but it’s killing. We have to see this clearly.” His remarks echo his longstanding stance against abortion, reinforcing the Church’s position on the sanctity of life.

When asked how voters should approach their electoral choices, Francis reiterated the moral responsibility to vote. He said, “One should vote and choose the lesser evil,” yet acknowledged the difficulty in determining who that might be. “Everyone in their conscience should think and do it,” he advised.

This is not the first time Francis has commented on American elections. In previous years, particularly during the 2016 election cycle, he criticized Trump’s proposed border wall. He had remarked that building walls to exclude migrants is incompatible with Christian values.

His recent comments bring to light the continuing national discourse in the United States, especially in light of Trump’s promises regarding immigration. Trump’s previous assertions for widespread deportations during his earlier campaign seemed disconnected from the practicalities involved in such actions.

The U.S. bishops conference has previously characterized abortion as the “preeminent priority” for Catholic voters. Democratic candidate Kamala Harris has been a vocal advocate for abortion rights and has emphasized restoring a federal right to abortion. In his statements, Francis added that scientific understanding supports the humanity of the unborn from early development stages: “Science says that in the first month after conception, all the organs of a human being are already there, all of them.”

However, medical consensus indicates that the development of organs begins early in pregnancy, with significant structures forming only later. For instance, the heart starts as a simple tube in the first months before developing into a fully formed organ.

Apart from discussing U.S. politics, Pope Francis denied recently reported intentions to attend the December inauguration of the restored Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. However, he expressed interest in visiting the Canary Islands to raise awareness about migrant issues.

Speculation about a return to Argentina surfaced once again, but he tempered expectations by stating there are unresolved matters before a visit could take place. He has not been back since before his elevation to papacy in 2013.

Additionally, the Pope described China as “a promise and a hope” for the Catholic Church, expressing hope for a visit in the future. On the sensitive topic of sexual abuse within the Church, he labeled new revelations of abuse by a renowned French priest as “demonic.”