Pope Francis Urges Catholics to Weigh 'Lesser Evil' in US Election Choices

Pope Francis criticised both US presidential candidates on Friday for their stances on abortion and migration, urging 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 be it the one who kills babies," he said. The Pope made these remarks during a news conference while returning to Rome from his tour of Asia.

Migration and Abortion Stances

Francis has prioritised the issue of migration throughout his pontificate, frequently speaking out about it. He stated that migration is a right described in Scripture and that failing to welcome strangers is a "grave sin." On abortion, he 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."

The Pope did not mention Republican candidate Donald Trump or Democratic candidate Kamala Harris by name. However, he addressed their positions on these critical issues, which are also significant concerns for the Catholic Church. Francis emphasised that he is not an American and would not be voting.

US Bishops' Stance and Voter Guidance

The US bishops conference has labelled abortion as the "preeminent priority" for American Catholics in its voter guidance. Kamala Harris has strongly defended abortion rights and supports reinstating a federal right to abortion. Francis reiterated the church's stance against abortion, stating: "On abortion, science says that a month from conception, all the organs of a human being are already there, all of them. Performing an abortion is killing a human being."

Francis also recalled his past comments on Trump's plan to build a wall at the US-Mexico border during the 2016 election. He had declared then that anyone who builds a wall to keep out migrants "is not Christian." On Friday, he remembered celebrating Mass at the US-Mexico border and seeing many shoes left behind by migrants who met unfortunate ends there.

Pope's Travel Plans

In other remarks, Francis denied reports that he would attend the December inauguration of the restored Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. He confirmed his desire to visit the Canary Islands to highlight migrant issues but mentioned no concrete plans for returning to Argentina this year. He noted that several matters need resolution before any visit could be arranged.

Francis also expressed hope for future relations with China, calling it "a promise and a hope" for the Catholic Church and expressing his wish to visit someday. Additionally, he condemned sexual abuse as "demonic" and commented on recent revelations involving French priest Abbe Pierre.

When asked about voting advice for American Catholics, Francis stressed the civic duty to vote and choose wisely. "One should vote, and choose the lesser evil," he said. "Who is the lesser evil, the woman or man? I don't know." He urged voters to follow their conscience when making their decision.

Trump has pledged massive deportations similar to his first White House bid despite legal and financial challenges. The Pope's comments come amid heightened debates on these issues in the US election landscape.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists notes that while cells start developing organs early in pregnancy, major organs are fully formed by 13 weeks. For instance, cardiac tissue begins forming within two months but evolves into a heart's four chambers later.

Francis' statements reflect his ongoing commitment to addressing critical moral issues while navigating complex political landscapes. His guidance aims to help voters make informed decisions aligned with their faith and conscience.