Trump, Harris against life; choose 'lesser of 2 evils': Pope
What's the story
Pope Francis reportedly criticized former United States President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris for their stance on immigration and abortion on Friday.
The Pope described these policies as "anti-life" during a press conference aboard the papal plane.
He urged American voters to consider the "lesser of two evils" in the upcoming election, without expressing a personal preference between Trump and Harris.
Policy critique
Pope Francis's stance on abortion and immigration
According to AP, he told reporters onboard the papal plane that both presidential candidates are "against life, be it the one who kicks out migrants or the one who (supports) killing babies."
He also condemned anti-immigration policies, describing the abandonment of migrants as "something terrible, there's evil there."
In 2016, he denounced Trump's intention to build a wall along the border between the United States and Mexico, saying that anyone who builds wall to keep migrants out "is not Christian."
Voter guidance
Pope Francis on moral dilemma in US election
Similary, he has also consistently condemned abortion, labeling it "murder" regardless of when it is performed.
When asked what voters should do at the November polls, the Pope said, "One should vote, and choose the lesser evil. Who is the lesser evil, the woman or man? I don't know."
"Everyone in their conscience should think and do it," he said.
Faith and politics
Pope Francis on Biden's Catholic faith and abortion rights
US President Joe Biden, a practicing Catholic, shares Harris's strong support for abortion rights.
This stance has led some Catholic bishops and other conservatives to call for denying him access to Communion.
However, after meeting the Pope in person at the Vatican in October 2021, Biden stated that the pope told him he was a "good Catholic" and should continue receiving Communion.