Pope Francis recently made a rare intervention in the U.S. presidential election, advising Catholic voters to carefully consider their choices and opt for the 'lesser evil.' This unusual move by the Pope came during a press conference on his return trip from Asia, where he expressed concerns about both candidates' stances on critical issues such as abortion and immigration.
During the press conference, Pope Francis highlighted the candidates' positions on life-related matters, criticizing their approaches to abortion and immigration policies. He emphasized the importance of reflecting on the candidates' values and urged Catholics to make a thoughtful decision when casting their votes.
On the topic of abortion, the Pope reiterated the Catholic Church's stance on the sanctity of life, condemning the act as a grave evil. He pointed out that both candidates hold positions that are contrary to the Church's teachings on the protection of human life.
Regarding immigration, Pope Francis underscored the biblical principle of welcoming migrants and emphasized the right to migrate as a fundamental aspect of human dignity. He expressed concerns about the rhetoric surrounding immigration issues and criticized the idea of closing borders and deporting migrants on a large scale.
While not explicitly naming the candidates, the Pope's remarks were seen as a critique of President Trump's immigration policies, including his plans to tighten border security and increase deportations. On the other hand, he also alluded to Vice President Harris's unwavering support for abortion rights, highlighting her close ties to organizations like Planned Parenthood.
Despite the Pope's call for discernment, recent surveys suggest that Catholic voters are leaning towards President Trump, with a slight majority favoring his re-election. The Pew Research Center's latest data indicates a 52 to 47 percent margin in favor of the former president among Catholic voters.
In conclusion, Pope Francis's intervention in the presidential election has sparked discussions within the Catholic community, prompting believers to reflect on their values and principles when making their electoral choices. His message serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding moral values and ethical considerations in the political sphere.
