In a recent press conference aboard the papal aircraft, Pope Francis shared his thoughts on the upcoming U.S. presidential election, scheduled for November 5, 2024. The pontiff's remarks came at the conclusion of his twelve-day Apostolic Journey through Southeast Asia and Oceania, highlighting the global significance of the American electoral process.
Pope Francis, who became the 266th leader of the Catholic Church in 2013, expressed concerns about both major candidates' positions on life issues. Without naming them directly, he criticized one candidate's stance on immigration and the other's position on abortion. The Pope emphasized the importance of voting, describing abstention as "not good" and "ugly."
Regarding migration, Pope Francis stated, "Migration is a right, and it was already present in Sacred Scripture and in the Old Testament." This perspective aligns with the Catholic Church's long-standing teachings on the treatment of foreigners and migrants. The pontiff added, "Sending migrants away, not allowing them to grow, not letting them have life is something wrong, it is cruelty."
On the topic of abortion, the Pope reiterated the Catholic Church's firm stance, describing it as "murder" and emphasizing that "the Church forbids abortion because it kills." This position has been a cornerstone of Catholic doctrine for centuries.
When asked about how Catholic voters should approach the election, Pope Francis advised:
"One should vote, and choose the lesser evil. Each person must think and decide according to their own conscience."
The concept of voting for the "lesser evil" has been a subject of debate in political philosophy for generations. The Pope refrained from endorsing either candidate, acknowledging his position as a non-American and emphasizing individual conscience in decision-making.
Pope Francis also addressed the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has been under blockade since 2007. He expressed deep concern over the situation, stating, "When you see the bodies of children killed, when you hear that schools are bombed because guerrillas might be inside, it's horrifying." The pontiff praised King Abdullah II of Jordan for his mediation efforts in the region, reflecting the monarch's significant role in Middle Eastern diplomacy since 1999.
The Pope's comments on both the U.S. election and the Gaza conflict underscore his continued engagement with global political and humanitarian issues. As the leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis has consistently used his platform to address social and political matters throughout his papacy, often providing guidance to the world's estimated 1.3 billion Catholics.
As the 2024 U.S. presidential election approaches, the Pope's words serve as a reminder of the complex moral considerations facing voters and the global impact of American politics. His call for increased aid and peace efforts in Gaza also highlights the ongoing humanitarian crises that demand international attention and action.