ABOARD THE PAPAL PLANE - During a press conference on Friday, Pope Francis expressed his disapproval of the U.S. presidential candidates' positions on abortion and migration, condemning their perceived anti-life policies. Speaking to the media while en route to Rome from his recent tour of Asia, the Pope urged American Catholics to carefully consider their options and choose the "lesser evil" in the upcoming elections.

Addressing reporters, Pope Francis did not hold back in his criticism of both candidates, stating, "Both are against life, be it the one who kicks out migrants, or be it the one who kills babies." The Pope, who emphasized that he is not American and therefore does not have voting rights, nevertheless offered guidance to Catholic voters navigating these contentious issues.

The Pope's comments come in the wake of a highly polarized political climate in the United States, where topics such as immigration and abortion have become hotly debated topics. Pope Francis, known for his outspoken stance on the rights of migrants, reaffirmed his position that migration is a right as described in Scripture. He further emphasized that anyone who fails to embrace this Biblical call to welcome the stranger is committing a "grave sin."

While the Catholic Church vehemently opposes abortion, Pope Francis has taken a somewhat different approach compared to his predecessors. Rather than solely focusing on church doctrine, the Pope has concentrated on addressing the broader issues impacting society and promoting compassion for all individuals.

Throughout his pontificate, Pope Francis has consistently highlighted the plight of migrants and voiced his concerns about their treatment. His remarks during the press conference reflect his dedication to fostering dialogue and encouraging the protection of human rights, particularly for those most vulnerable.

As the U.S. prepares for its upcoming elections, Pope Francis's commentary on abortion and migration policies serves as a reminder to American Catholics to carefully consider the candidates' stances and choose the option that aligns more closely with their values. The Pope's intervention also underscores the significance of these issues not just within the Catholic Church, but also within the broader global community.