Pope Francis made headlines on Friday when he shared his thoughts on the options for voters in the upcoming 2024 U.S. presidential election. As he returned from an extensive trip to Asia, the Pope indicated to reporters on his papal plane that he believed both Vice President Kamala Harris and her Republican challenger, former President Donald Trump, were “against life.”
When asked by CBS News what advice he would give to a Catholic voter who was faced with choosing between a candidate who supports abortion rights and one who has proposed deporting millions of migrants, the Pope responded by saying, “They are both against life – the one who throws away migrants and the one who kills children.”
The topics of abortion rights and immigration were heavily debated during the recent presidential debate between Harris and Trump, which took place on Tuesday night. The Pope addressed these issues as he spoke with journalists on his flight from Singapore to Jakarta, wrapping up a 12-day, 20,000-mile tour of Asia and the Pacific.
During the conversation, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of considering political morality when making voting decisions. He acknowledged that sometimes voters may have to choose the “lesser of two evils” and urged American Catholic voters to carefully examine their consciences before casting their ballots.
The Pope also expressed his views on immigration, stating that denying migrants the ability to work and not welcoming them was a sin. He highlighted the biblical roots of immigration rights, pointing out that the Old Testament of the Bible instructs the people of Israel to care for the orphan, the widow, and the stranger – in other words, the migrant.
In addition to immigration, Pope Francis reiterated the Catholic Church’s stance on abortion, labeling it as murder. He emphasized that regardless of personal opinions, abortion should be viewed as a form of killing and should be condemned.
As the 2024 election approaches, the Pope’s comments have sparked discussions and debates among Catholics and voters of all backgrounds. His words serve as a reminder of the ethical considerations that should guide individuals when making important decisions, such as choosing political leaders.
Overall, Pope Francis’ remarks shed light on the complexities of political and moral issues that intersect in the context of elections. His guidance encourages voters to reflect on their values and beliefs as they navigate the choices presented to them in the democratic process.
