Pope Leo XIV weighs in on abortion, death penalty, immigrants
Share and Follow


() Pope Leo XIV spoke out on the death penalty and inhumane treatment of immigrants Tuesday, saying those who support those policies are “not really pro-life.”

The pope made the comments to reporters at EWTN News, weighing in on a decision by Chicago Cardinal Blase Cupich to honor Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., for his defense of immigrants.

Ten American bishops objected to the award because Durbin supports legalized abortion.

The long-serving senator has said that while he would encourage women in his life not to have an abortion, he recognizes that it is their decision, and in terms of public policy, that option should be there.

Pope Leo XIV said he wasn’t familiar with Durbin’s specific situation but noted that it is important to look at the overall record of his work.

“Someone who says, ‘I’m against abortion,’ but says, ‘I’m in favor of the death penalty,’ is not really pro-life,” the pope said. “Someone who says that, ‘I’m against abortion but I’m in agreement with the inhumane treatment of immigrants who are in the United States,’ I don’t know if that’s pro-life.”

The Archdiocese of Chicago announced on Tuesday that Durbin had chosen not to receive the award, with Cupich lamenting the limited political options available to Catholics.

The pope has previously condemned capital punishment and the Trump administration’s rhetoric and policies regarding immigrants. He has also affirmed the church’s position on abortion.

He also spoke of a need for togetherness.

“I would ask, first and foremost, that there be greater respect for one another and that we search together, both as human beings, in that case as American citizens, or citizens of the state of Illinois, as well as Catholics, to say, ‘We need to really look closely at all of these ethical issues, and to find the way forward as a church,’” the pope said.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Texas' redrawn US House map that boosts GOP begins a key court test

Court Evaluates Texas’ Revised US House Map Favoring GOP

A panel of federal judges will begin Wednesday to consider whether Texas…
Munich Oktoberfest fairgrounds closed after bomb threat and deadly explosion

Munich Oktoberfest fairgrounds closed after bomb threat and deadly explosion

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! German police closed the…
Germany closes Oktoberfest over bomb threat

Oktoberfest in Germany Shut Down Due to Bomb Threat

Germany’s Oktoberfest has been abruptly halted following a tragic event where a…
Why eating nuts WON'T make you fat, experts reveal

Experts Explain Why Eating Nuts Won’t Lead to Weight Gain

Nuts have long had a reputation as diet wreckers—too fatty, too calorific,…
The longer the shutdown, the worse for schools, education experts say

Education Experts Warn: Prolonged Shutdowns Detrimental to Schools

Education advocates are biting their nails as the government shutdown begins.  A…
Missouri mom shot, stabbed 16-year-old son to death while he slept: Police

Police Report: Missouri Mother Fatally Attacks Sleeping 16-Year-Old Son

ST. CHARLES, Mo. – A St. Charles woman is in custody for…
New probe opened into death of renowned author Hunter S. Thompson

Investigation Launched into Author Hunter S. Thompson’s Death

The passing of journalist and author Hunter S. Thompson is currently being…
Nicole Kidman's getting advice from Naomi Watts on Keith Urban divorce

Nicole Kidman Seeks Guidance from Naomi Watts Amidst Split with Keith Urban

Nicole Kidman is turning to a friendly face as she navigates her…