Pope Francis has urged members of the Catholic Church to view the upcoming U.S. presidential election as a decision between the lesser of two evils.
While flying back to Rome on Friday, the Pope expressed his concerns about the two leading candidates—former President Donald Trump of the Republican Party and Vice President Kamala Harris of the Democratic Party—without naming them directly.
He highlighted that both candidates, in different ways, hold positions that he believes are “against life.”
“You must choose the lesser evil,” he stated. “Who is the lesser evil? That lady or that gentleman? I don’t know. Everyone, in conscience, [has to] think and do this.”
Abortion and immigration remain key determinants in American politics, and according to the Pope, refusing to welcome immigrants is a “grave” sin, and abortion is akin to an “assassination.” Hence, the electorate must choose between the lesser of two evils.
He, however, emphasised the need for citizens to exercise their franchise, noting that “not voting is ugly.
“It is not good. You must vote,” he stated.
Throughout its history, the Catholic Church has firmly opposed abortion while advocating for more compassionate immigration policies.
The Biden-Harris administration has positioned itself as pro-choice, implementing policies that support women’s right to make decisions regarding abortion.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump has maintained a hardline stance on immigration and has outlined plans to introduce stricter immigration policies if he wins the presidency in November.
With just 50 days until the November 5 presidential election, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Trump are the main contenders in the race for the White House.