Vote for 'Lesser Evil' in Presidential Election
Pope Francis Speaks on U.S. Election, Condemns Policies 'Against Life'
In a press conference aboard his flight from Singapore to Rome, Pope Francis addressed the contentious U.S. presidential election, urging American Catholics to carefully consider their vote. Without naming specific candidates, the pontiff criticized policies that he deemed "against life," particularly those related to immigration and abortion.
The pope described the failure to welcome migrants as a "grave" sin and equated abortion to "assassination." He emphasized the moral imperative for Catholics to protect the sanctity of life and care for the vulnerable, citing biblical passages that call for compassion towards orphans, widows, and foreigners.
Guidance for American Catholics
Acknowledging the challenging choice that Catholics would face at the polls, Pope Francis advised them to "choose the lesser evil" without providing further details. He stressed the importance of voting, stating, "Not voting is ugly... Everyone, in conscience, (has to) think and do this."
Impact on the U.S. Electorate
American Catholics, who constitute a significant portion of the electorate in key battleground states, are now faced with the task of discerning the "lesser evil" by their faith and conscience. The pope's guidance is expected to influence the deliberations of many faithful voters as they prepare to participate in the democratic process.
Previous Statements and Stances
Pope Francis has been vocal about social justice issues and has previously criticized both Donald Trump's anti-immigrant rhetoric and the Supreme Court's decision to strike down national protections for abortion access. His latest remarks underscore the moral considerations that Catholics must weigh when casting their votes.
Conclusion
As the U.S. presidential election approaches, Pope Francis's call for American Catholics to vote for the 'lesser evil' highlights the complex moral landscape of contemporary politics. His words are a reminder of the Church's teachings on the sanctity of life and the responsibility to protect the vulnerable, guiding Catholics to make informed and conscientious choices at the ballot box.
Advises U.S. Catholics to choose the 'lesser evil' in the November election.
Emphasizes the moral dilemmas faced by American Catholics.
