Key Points:
- Migration & Abortion: Pope Francis criticized both U.S. presidential candidates for their stances on migration and abortion, calling them “anti-life.”
- Migration as a Biblical Mandate: He emphasized that migration is a right described in the Bible and that failing to welcome migrants is a “grave sin.”
- Abortion as Murder: The Pope reiterated the Church’s opposition to abortion, describing it as killing a human being and rejecting any suggestion that the Church should change its stance.
- Catholic Voters’ Role: Francis urged Catholics to vote with their conscience and to choose the “lesser evil” between the two candidates.
- Other Global Issues: The Pope discussed several other topics, including the Church’s relationship with China and the latest revelations of sexual abuse within the clergy.
Pope Francis Criticizes U.S. Presidential Candidates on Abortion and Migration Policies
In a recent address, Pope Francis issued sharp criticism of the two leading U.S. presidential candidates, highlighting what he described as their “anti-life” stances on key issues, particularly abortion and migration. Speaking to journalists aboard the papal plane, Francis advised American Catholics to vote with their conscience, suggesting that they choose the “lesser evil” in the upcoming elections.
While Pope Francis did not mention Republican candidate Donald Trump or Democratic candidate Kamala Harris by name, his pointed remarks addressed policies that both have championed. Francis has long been a vocal advocate for the rights of migrants and an opponent of abortion, both of which are central moral issues for the Catholic Church.
Migration as a Moral Imperative
Francis reiterated his view that migration is a fundamental right rooted in biblical teachings. Citing Scripture, the Pope said, “Welcoming the stranger is a call from God, and failing to do so is a grave sin.” His remarks appeared to be directed at Donald Trump, who has campaigned on policies that include building a border wall and deporting undocumented immigrants.
The Pope’s emphasis on compassion toward migrants has been a hallmark of his papacy, aligning with his broader efforts to bring attention to the plight of refugees and displaced persons worldwide. In 2016, ahead of Trump’s first presidential run, Francis had stated that anyone who builds walls to keep out migrants is “not Christian.” On Friday, he echoed those sentiments, recalling the time he celebrated Mass near the U.S.-Mexico border, surrounded by symbols of those who died trying to cross into the United States.
Abortion as a Non-Negotiable
Turning his attention to abortion, Pope Francis reaffirmed the Church’s staunch opposition, describing abortion as “murder.” He stated unequivocally, “To have an abortion is to kill a human being. You may like the word or not, but it is killing.” These comments appear aimed at Kamala Harris, who has strongly defended abortion rights and called for the reinstatement of a federal right to abortion.
Although Francis is less vocal about abortion compared to his predecessors, he emphasized that the scientific fact of life developing in the womb cannot be denied. He pointed out that within a month of conception, a human being’s organs begin to form. “The Church does not allow abortion because it is murder, plain and simple,” he added.
American Catholics Urged to Vote with Conscience
When asked what guidance he would give to American Catholic voters, Pope Francis stressed the importance of civic participation. He urged Catholics to engage thoughtfully with the issues and to vote according to their conscience, choosing the candidate who represents the “lesser evil.”
“Everyone in their conscience should think and do it,” he said, reiterating the moral responsibility that comes with casting a vote. Although the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has identified abortion as the “preeminent priority” for American Catholics, Francis’ comments indicate a more nuanced approach to evaluating candidates, weighing both life issues and human dignity.
A Broader Context for the Catholic Church
Beyond his remarks on U.S. politics, Pope Francis discussed several other issues of global importance. He confirmed he would not attend the upcoming reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, despite rumors to the contrary. He also reaffirmed his desire to visit the Canary Islands to draw attention to the migrant crisis.
The Pope expressed hope that China would emerge as a “promise and a hope” for the Catholic Church, hinting at a potential future visit. In addition, he called the revelations of sexual abuse within the Church, particularly recent cases involving French priest Abbe Pierre, “demonic.”
Pope Francis’ comments once again place him at the heart of some of the most pressing global ethical debates, particularly as they intersect with politics and the future of the Church.