Pope Francis Urges Catholic Voters to Choose 'Lesser Evil' Between Trump and Harris

Amid ongoing abortion policy criticism, Pope Francis has advised Catholic voters to "choose the lesser evil" between former President Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, criticizing both candidates' stance on certain issues.

Pope Francis has reignited the debate on Catholic voting by urging Catholic voters to "choose the lesser evil" between former President Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris. The pope's comments, made during a press conference on his papal airplane, have drawn attention and caused a stir among both Catholics and non-Catholics alike.

Francis specifically criticized Harris' support for abortion rights, calling it an "assassination," while also chastising Trump for his stance on immigration, saying that "not welcoming migrants is a sin." He emphasized the importance of Catholic voters making an informed decision based on their conscience but also stressed the duty to vote.

Pope Francis Urges Catholic Voters to Choose 'Lesser Evil' Between Trump and Harris

Harris has expressed her intention to codify Roe v. Wade into law if elected, while Trump has pledged the "largest mass deportation in American history of our country." The pope did not specify which candidate he personally prefers.

On abortion, Francis was unequivocal, stating that "it is an assassination. On these things we must speak clearly. No 'but' or 'however.'" He further asserted that "not giving welcome to migrants is a sin. It is grave."

Pope Francis Urges Catholic Voters to Choose 'Lesser Evil' Between Trump and Harris

Trump and Harris have made their respective positions on immigration and abortion a focus of their political campaigns. Trump has previously sparred with the pope over his immigration policies, accusing him of being used as a "pawn" by the Mexican government.

Pope Francis has also previously criticized President Biden's stance on abortion. Biden, a Catholic, supports a woman's right to choose, which Francis called an "incoherence" in a 2022 interview.

Pope Francis Urges Catholic Voters to Choose 'Lesser Evil' Between Trump and Harris

The pope's comments have sparked discussions and debates among Catholic voters and the wider public. There are more than 50 million Catholics in the U.S., including a sizable number of voters in swing states like Wisconsin and Pennsylvania.

Some Catholic leaders have welcomed the pope's guidance, while others have expressed concerns about the potential political implications. The debate is likely to continue as the U.S. presidential election approaches.

Pope Francis Urges Catholic Voters to Choose 'Lesser Evil' Between Trump and Harris

In conclusion, Pope Francis's call for Catholic voters to choose the "lesser evil" between Trump and Harris has ignited a wide range of reactions. His comments highlight the importance of informed voting and the role of conscience in political decision-making. As the election draws near, Catholic voters will face the challenge of navigating their religious beliefs with the political realities of the candidates and their policies.