Pope Francis Voices Concern Over US Presidential Candidates' Policies

Pope Francis criticised both US presidential candidates on Friday, labelling their stances on abortion and migration as anti-life. He urged American Catholics to vote for the "lesser evil" in the upcoming elections. "Both are against life, be it the one who kicks out migrants or the one who supports killing babies," Francis stated. "Both are against life."

The Pope, speaking during a press conference on his flight back to Rome from Asia, emphasised that he is not an American and would not be voting. Although he did not name Republican candidate Donald Trump or Democratic candidate Kamala Harris, his comments were clear. He addressed their positions on abortion and migration, two significant issues for the Catholic Church.

Migration and Abortion Stances

Francis has prioritised the plight of migrants throughout his pontificate, frequently speaking out about it. He also upholds church teachings against abortion but has not emphasised this doctrine as strongly as his predecessors. He described migration as a right mentioned in Scripture and stated that failing to welcome strangers is a "grave sin."

On abortion, Francis was equally blunt. "To have an abortion is to kill a human being. You may like the word or not, but it's killing," he said. "We have to see this clearly." When asked about voting, he reminded people of their civic duty to vote and choose the lesser evil.

Previous Comments on US Elections

This isn't the first time Francis has commented on a US election. In 2016, he criticised Trump's plan to build a wall at the US-Mexican border, stating that anyone who builds such a wall "is not Christian." On Friday, he recalled celebrating Mass at the US-Mexico border and seeing many shoes of migrants who had suffered there.

The US bishops conference has called abortion the "preeminent priority" for American Catholics in its voter advice publications. Kamala Harris has been a strong defender of abortion rights.

Other Remarks by Pope Francis

In other comments, Francis denied a French media report suggesting he would attend the December inauguration of the restored Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. He confirmed he would not be there but expressed a desire to visit the Canary Islands to highlight migrant issues.

He also addressed speculation about returning to Argentina later this year. While he wants to go back, nothing has been decided yet. He noted several issues need resolving first. Francis hasn't visited Argentina since before becoming Pope in 2013.

Additionally, Francis described China as "a promise and a hope" for the Catholic Church and expressed his wish to visit someday. He also condemned sexual abuse as "demonic" and commented on recent revelations involving French priest Abbe Pierre.

The Pope's remarks reflect his ongoing commitment to addressing critical issues affecting both the Church and society at large.